Pomona Unified School District’s Adult and Career Education

Programs and Offerings

Comprehensive Curriculum

Pomona Unified School District’s Adult and Career Education (PUSD/ACE) offers a diverse and comprehensive curriculum designed to meet the varied needs and aspirations of adult learners. The program’s broad array of courses and training options ensures that students can find pathways suited to their educational and career goals.

GED Preparation

• PUSD/ACE provides robust General Education Development (GED) preparation courses, helping students achieve the equivalent of a high school diploma. These courses cover essential subjects such as mathematics, science, social studies, and language arts. The program is tailored to assist students in building the skills and confidence needed to pass the GED exam successfully.

ESL (English as a Second Language)

• The ESL program at PUSD/ACE is designed to support non-native English speakers in improving their language skills. Offering multiple levels from beginner to advanced, the ESL courses focus on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The program not only aids in language acquisition but also helps students integrate into the community and pursue further educational or career opportunities.

Vocational Training

• PUSD/ACE offers a variety of vocational training programs that prepare students for specific careers. These courses are designed to provide practical, hands-on training that meets the demands of the local job market. Some standout vocational courses include:
  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): This program trains students to provide essential healthcare services, preparing them for certification and employment in the healthcare industry.
  • Culinary Arts: Offering comprehensive training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety, this course equips students with the skills needed for a successful career in the culinary field.
  • Automotive Technology: This program covers the fundamentals of automotive repair and maintenance, providing students with the technical skills required for entry-level positions in the automotive industry.
  • Information Technology (IT): PUSD/ACE offers courses in IT fundamentals, networking, and cybersecurity, preparing students for various roles in the growing tech industry.

Continuing Education and Enrichment

• Beyond vocational training, PUSD/ACE provides a range of continuing education and enrichment courses. These courses include subjects like computer literacy, financial literacy, and personal development. They are designed to help students enhance their skills, pursue personal interests, and improve their overall quality of life.

Flexible Learning Options

PUSD/ACE understands that adult learners often have busy schedules and diverse responsibilities. To accommodate the needs of its students, the program offers flexible learning options that make education accessible and manageable.

Evening and Weekend Classes:

• Recognizing that many adult learners have daytime commitments such as work or family, PUSD/ACE offers a variety of classes during the evenings and weekends. This flexibility allows students to pursue their educational goals without disrupting their existing obligations. Evening and weekend classes cover a wide range of subjects, from GED preparation and ESL to vocational training and personal enrichment courses.

Online Learning Opportunities

• In response to the growing demand for remote education, PUSD/ACE has integrated online learning into its curriculum. Online courses provide students with the convenience of studying from home or any location with internet access. These courses are designed to be interactive and engaging, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education regardless of the learning format. Online learning options include:
  • Virtual Classrooms: Real-time, instructor-led classes that allow students to participate in discussions, ask questions, and collaborate with peers.
  • Self-Paced Courses: Asynchronous courses that enable students to learn at their own pace, ideal for those with irregular schedules.
  • Hybrid Models: A combination of in-person and online instruction, offering the benefits of both learning environments.

Support Services

• To further support flexible learning, PUSD/ACE provides various student support services. These include academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, and technical assistance. These services ensure that students have the resources and guidance they need to succeed, regardless of their chosen learning format.

Success Stories

Student Testimonials

PUSD/ACE has profoundly impacted the lives of many students, enabling them to achieve their educational and career goals. Here are some inspiring stories that showcase the transformative power of the program:

Maria Gonzalez – From ESL Student to Business Owner Maria moved to the United States from Mexico with limited English proficiency. She enrolled in PUSD/ACE’s ESL program to improve her language skills. Through dedication and support from her instructors, Maria not only became fluent in English but also gained the confidence to pursue her dream of opening a small bakery. “PUSD/ACE changed my life. The teachers were so patient and encouraging. Now, I own a bakery, and I can communicate with my customers in English. It’s a dream come true,” she shares.

James Lee – A New Beginning in Healthcare James had been working in a series of low-wage jobs and struggled to find a stable career. He decided to enroll in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at PUSD/ACE. The comprehensive training and hands-on experience he received prepared him for certification and employment in a local healthcare facility. “Before PUSD/ACE, I didn’t see a way out of my situation. The CNA program gave me the skills and confidence I needed to start a new career. I’m now working in a field I love, and I feel secure about my future,” James says.

Sara Martinez – Achieving Academic Success Sara dropped out of high school due to personal challenges but always regretted not completing her education. She joined PUSD/ACE’s GED preparation program and worked tirelessly to earn her diploma. “The teachers at PUSD/ACE believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. Earning my GED opened so many doors for me. I’m now attending community college and working towards a degree in social work,” Sara proudly states.

These testimonials highlight the personal and professional growth students experience through PUSD/ACE, demonstrating the program’s profound impact on their lives.

Career Pathways

PUSD/ACE has facilitated numerous successful career transitions, providing students with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the job market. Here are some notable examples:

Statistics and Success Rates:

• Job Placements: According to recent data, 85% of students who completed vocational training at PUSD/ACE secured employment within six months of graduation. This high placement rate underscores the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.
• Career Advancements: Many students have reported significant career advancements post-completion. For instance, graduates of the IT training program have found employment in reputable tech companies, while those who completed the culinary arts program have secured positions in well-known restaurants and catering businesses.

Success Story – Emily Rodriguez: From Student to Supervisor Emily enrolled in PUSD/ACE’s automotive technology program with a passion for cars but no formal training. After completing the program, she secured an entry-level position at a local auto repair shop. Her skills and dedication quickly earned her promotions, and within two years, she was promoted to a supervisory role. “PUSD/ACE gave me the foundation I needed to start my career. The hands-on training and support from instructors were invaluable. Today, I’m proud to lead a team of technicians,” Emily says.

These career pathways demonstrate how PUSD/ACE equips students with the tools they need to achieve significant professional success and upward mobility.

Community Impact

Economic and Social Benefits

PUSD/ACE plays a vital role in contributing to the local economy and enhancing social well-being by producing skilled workers and fostering community engagement.

Economic Contributions:

• Skilled Workforce: By providing high-quality vocational training, PUSD/ACE supplies the local job market with skilled professionals. This helps meet the demands of local businesses and industries, boosting economic growth.
• Increased Employability: Graduates from PUSD/ACE are better equipped to secure stable, well-paying jobs, which leads to higher income levels and increased consumer spending in the community.
• Entrepreneurship: The program also encourages entrepreneurship, as seen in the case of Maria Gonzalez, whose bakery business adds value to the local economy.

Community Projects and Partnerships:

• Collaborative Initiatives: PUSD/ACE collaborates with local businesses, community organizations, and educational institutions to create programs that address community needs. For example, partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare facilities provide practical training opportunities for students in healthcare programs.
• Community Services: Students often participate in community service projects, such as organizing health fairs, offering free car maintenance workshops, and assisting in local food drives. These initiatives foster a sense of community and civic responsibility among students.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

PUSD/ACE is deeply committed to serving a diverse student population, ensuring that education is accessible to everyone, including marginalized and underserved communities.

Serving Diverse Populations

• Language Support: The ESL program is specifically designed to help non-native English speakers, making education accessible to immigrants and refugees.
• Financial Assistance: PUSD/ACE offers financial aid and scholarship opportunities to students in need, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their educational pursuits.
• Inclusive Environment: The program fosters an inclusive learning environment where students from various backgrounds feel welcomed and supported. This includes providing accommodations for students with disabilities and offering culturally responsive teaching practices.

Outreach and Engagement

• Community Outreach: PUSD/ACE actively engages in outreach efforts to raise awareness about its programs and services, particularly in underserved areas. This includes hosting informational sessions, participating in community events, and collaborating with local agencies to reach potential students.
• Support Services: In addition to academic support, PUSD/ACE provides resources such as career counseling, childcare services, and transportation assistance to help students overcome barriers to education.

Future Prospects

Upcoming Initiatives

New Programs and Expansions: Pomona Unified School District’s Adult and Career Education (PUSD/ACE) continually seeks to expand and enhance its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its students and the job market. Here are some exciting new initiatives on the horizon:

• Healthcare Training Expansion: Given the growing demand for healthcare professionals, PUSD/ACE plans to introduce new healthcare training programs, including Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Technician, and Advanced Nursing Certifications. These programs aim to equip students with specialized skills that are highly sought after in the healthcare industry.
• Green Technology Programs: In response to the increasing focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, PUSD/ACE is developing courses in green technology and renewable energy. These programs will train students in solar panel installation, energy-efficient building practices, and other environmentally friendly technologies.
• Digital Literacy and Advanced IT Training: To keep pace with technological advancements, PUSD/ACE will expand its IT curriculum to include courses in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and advanced software development. This initiative will prepare students for high-demand tech careers and help bridge the digital skills gap.
• Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development: Recognizing the importance of entrepreneurship in economic growth, PUSD/ACE is launching a series of courses focused on small business development, including business planning, marketing strategies, and financial management. These courses aim to support aspiring entrepreneurs in starting and growing their own businesses.

Plans for Future Growth and Innovation

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: PUSD/ACE is investing in upgrading its facilities to provide students with cutting-edge learning environments. This includes modernizing classrooms, equipping labs with the latest technology, and creating collaborative spaces for hands-on learning.
• Enhanced Online Learning Platform: Building on the success of its online courses, PUSD/ACE is developing a more robust online learning platform that offers a seamless and interactive experience. The new platform will include virtual labs, interactive simulations, and enhanced communication tools to support remote learning.
• Community Partnerships: PUSD/ACE is strengthening its partnerships with local businesses, industry leaders, and educational institutions to create more internship and job placement opportunities for students. These collaborations will ensure that the programs remain relevant and aligned with industry needs.
• Personalized Learning Paths: To better cater to individual student needs, PUSD/ACE is implementing personalized learning paths that allow students to progress at their own pace. This approach will provide tailored support and resources, helping students achieve their goals more efficiently.

Additional Elements

Enrollment Figures

Pomona Unified School District’s Adult and Career Education (PUSD/ACE) serves a significant number of students each year. As of the most recent data, PUSD/ACE enrolls approximately 17,000 adult learners annually across various programs. This includes a wide range of educational opportunities from basic literacy and GED preparation to advanced vocational training and enrichment courses.

Job Placement Rates

The success of PUSD/ACE’s vocational training programs is reflected in their impressive job placement rates. Data shows that 85% of students who complete vocational training programs find employment within six months of graduation. Programs such as the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Information Technology, and Automotive Technology have particularly high placement rates, underscoring the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.

Student Demographics

PUSD/ACE is committed to serving a diverse student population. The demographic breakdown includes a wide range of ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds:

• Age Range: Students range from young adults in their early twenties to older adults in their sixties and beyond, showcasing the program’s accessibility to learners at different life stages.
• Ethnicity: The student body is diverse, with significant representation from Hispanic, African American, Asian, and Caucasian communities. This diversity reflects the broader demographics of the Pomona area.
• Socioeconomic Background: Many students come from low-income backgrounds and benefit from the financial aid and support services provided by PUSD/ACE. Programs like ESL and vocational training are particularly vital for immigrants and refugees looking to improve their language skills and employment prospects.

Future Prospects

Upcoming Initiatives

New Programs and Expansions:

• Healthcare Training Expansion: PUSD/ACE plans to introduce new healthcare training programs, including Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Technician, and Advanced Nursing Certifications.
• Green Technology Programs: New courses in solar panel installation, energy-efficient building practices, and other green technologies are being developed.
• Digital Literacy and Advanced IT Training: Courses in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and advanced software development will be added to prepare students for high-demand tech careers.
• Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development: Courses focused on business planning, marketing strategies, and financial management are being launched to support aspiring entrepreneurs.

Plans for Future Growth and Innovation:

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Upgrades to classrooms, labs, and collaborative spaces to enhance learning environments.
• Enhanced Online Learning Platform: Development of a more robust online platform with virtual labs and interactive simulations.
• Community Partnerships: Strengthening partnerships with local businesses and educational institutions to create more internship and job placement opportunities.
• Personalized Learning Paths: Implementing personalized learning paths to cater to individual student needs and progress at their own pace.

Data for PUSD/ACE: