Why can’t I get a job without my GED? 

Today’s job market has changed. Nearly all employers require a job applicant to have a GED in order for them to be considered for ANY job. Today in Holyoke, 30% of people 18 or older have not finished high school and more than 26% live in poverty. It is not a coincidence that these facts are connected. In order to get ahead in today’s job market, you must have a GED and be thinking about lifelong learning. YOU DON’T WANT A JOB, YOU WANT A CAREER!   

How can Holyoke Works help me develop a career?

 
Your first stop at Holyoke Works will be in an Orientation and Assessment program. Before you can create a career plan, you need to be sure of what educational skills you have now and what will be needed. After some brief testing of your reading and math abilities, you will meet with the Holyoke Works counselor and discuss what kind or work you would like to do. Together you will map out a plan to reach your short and long-term education and employment goals.  

What will it cost me to attend classes at Holyoke Works?

 
Holyoke Works offers three levels of ESOL classes on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. These classes are funded by the Mass. Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and there is no charge for people 16 years of age and older. Daytime classes are also offered at no cost but there is an eligibility process that must be met. Anyone receiving SSI, Food Stamps, Unemployment Insurance, TAFDC, or Mass Rehab are eligible for Adult Basic Education, GED, ESOL, and job training at no cost.   

How can I be referred to Holyoke Works? 

You don’t need a referral to attend Holyoke Works. Just call Larry Bay or June Lupien at  (413) 532-2683 and we’ll schedule you for an appointment to begin our Orientation process in less than 1 week! Feel free to contact us at any time with any questions.