Adult Learning Academy

The Adult Learning Academy under the direction of the Corporate and Community Education division provides members of the community with resources to gain a better job, reach personal goals and improve their quality of life. The program has evolved as one that has delivered customized workforce training and implemented innovative tailored literacy programs to multiple populations in the San Antonio community. The success of the program can be attributed to the consistency of a flexible schedule, strong curriculum, and well qualified, and experienced instructors. The program consists of English as a Second Language (ESL), ESL for the Workforce with College and Career pathway opportunities, ESL Academic Preparation, and General Education Development (GED) courses. 

Recognizing that there is always room for growth, that we have incredible potential to acquire skills and attributes, begin your growth process by doing the things that are important to you and your well being. If that means obtaining your GED, upgrading your basic skills or learning English, Palo Alto College provides that opportunity.

Employers, elevate the skills of your employees through learning that builds confidence. Upgrade basic skills in math, writing, reading or English as a Second Language so that your employees can meet the challenges of today's fast paced workplace. Don't see the course you are looking for? Ask us about customized training options!  Below please find a listing of our Adult Learning Academy programs.

Program Areas

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Despite the many challenges facing individuals with limited English, the ESL program at Palo Alto College offers the opportunity to progress to the skill level they want to attain.

The program is comprised of three levels: Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced level classes to accommodate student proficiency with emphasis and development of functional language skills. These courses focus on listening, reading and writing skills. These courses include an elective class for speaking and conversation.

All students requesting to register for an intermediate or advanced course and have not completed the pre-­‐requisite course, must take the ESL assessment before registering for a class. We administer the assessment every Tuesday from 9am-­‐11am

 Click here for ESL Summer 2013 schedule.

English as a Second Language (ESL for beginners)

The program is comprised of six levels to accommodate student proficiency and increase communicative competence.  The focus of these courses is listening, speaking, reading, conversation, writing and grammar.   Students will be immersed in authentic and standard English at a level that is meaningful and comprehensible while being actively involved in the language learning process. Many of the students that start off with the Literacy program progress to the ESL for the workforce or the Academic ESL. 

English as a Second Language for the Workplace (ESLW) 

This course will help students acquire knowledge and understanding in the English language while focusing on workplace communication which includes business writing and business speaking.  The module is designed to provide college and career pathway opportunities for students seeking education beyond successful completion of ESLW.

English as a Second Language-Academic (ESLA) 

This course will focus on improving English fluency in reading, writing and speaking needed for academic level classes. 

Clases de Inglés

 Este curso es para personas que tienen conocimientos limitados o ningún conocimiento en ingles y que tengan 17 años o mayores. El curso incluye asesorías en gramática básica, escritura, lectura, conversación y fonética. El curso incluye los niveles Pre-básico, Principiantes, Intermedios e Intermedio-Avanzado. El nivel de estudio se basará en una previa evaluación. 

General Educational Development (GED) / GED en Español

If you need to obtain employment, advance in your career, or enroll in college or training you will need to demonstrate to employers or colleges that you have at least a high school education or its equivalent.

Palo Alto College's GED review course will help you develop the math, writing, reading and critical thinking skills you'll need to succeed in passing the GED exam. We cover all five GED subject areas with a strong emphasis on Math and Writing skills. Palo Alto College provides students with practice tests, tips on time management, study skills and locations of testing centers in San Antonio.

 Click here for GED Summer 2013 schedule.

GED en Español
Inscribiéndote en esta clase que esta diseñada para optimizar tu aprendizaje y asesorarte en las cinco áreas del GED: Matemáticas, Redacción, Estudios Sociales, Ciencias y Lenguaje Lectura. El curso también ofrece consejos de estudio y exámenes de practica.

Las clases son dirigidas completamente en español.