www.SimpsonScarborough.com

A Powerful Second Chance

A program of the American Council on Education

Transition Issues Facing GED GraduatesFebruary 4, 2008

Panelist: Sylvia E. RobinsonAssistant Vice President, American Council on Education and

Executive Director, General Educational Development Testing Service™

®

2General Educational Development Testing Service™

1942 – American Council on Education commissioned to develop assessment to measure outcomes of high school education

1947 – New York was first state to test civilians

1974 – GED high school equivalency credential becomes a powerful second chance in all 50 states

GEDTS History

3General Educational Development Testing Service™

In 2006:714,436 Candidates419,354 Passed

28,756,84928,756,849Total Credentials Issued

Since 1942

4General Educational Development Testing Service™

GED® Testing Service

• Develops the tests

• Leases the tests

• Establishes minimum age requirement

• Establishes minimum passing score requirements

States and Provinces

• Award the diploma/credential

• Establish compulsory school attendance age

• Establish locations and oversee official testing centers

• Determine testing fees

The Private and Public Partnership of GEDTS

5General Educational Development Testing Service™

GED candidates who pass the 7 1/2 hour battery of five tests are awarded a credential that certifies attainment of high school-level academic knowledge and skills at a level that surpasses 40% of graduating high school seniors.

What the GED Tests Measure

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• No, GED graduates are a diverse group

• Age

• Ethnicity

• Motivation

• Place of residence

• Level of formal education

Is There a Typical GED Graduate?

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• Academic readiness

• Financial constraints

• Family and work responsibilities

• Social and emotional barriers

• Lack of information and inadequate support networks

Challenges to Postsecondary Enrollment

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• Model programs for academic support

• Opportunities for financial assistance

• Enhanced family support and workplace education

• Effective counseling and advising systems

• Clear and accessible information resources

Strategies for Success

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Wrap-up

• Discussion and Questions

• Contact for further information:Christopher “CT” TurnerAssociate Director, Marketing and Public RelationsGED Testing Service™

email: christopher_turner@ace.nche.eduphone: 202/939.9720website: www.gedtest.org