At Monterey Peninsula Unified School District’s Monterey Adult School, the learning never stops. From April 6-12, 2025, Monterey Adult School joins schools across California in celebrating Adult Education Week, recognizing the life-changing impact of adult education on individuals, families, and our entire community.
Adult education isn’t just about earning a diploma—it’s about creating opportunities. It’s about building confidence and opening doors to new careers, personal growth, and brighter futures. Every day, Monterey Adult School's dedicated teachers and staff support learners on their unique journeys, whether they are parents improving their English to support their children in school, adults gaining job skills for career advancement, or community members taking the next step toward citizenship.
At Monterey Adult School, we offer free and low-cost programs to help adults:
- Earn a high school diploma or high school equivalency certificate
- Improve English language skills
- Receive career and technical education training
- Prepare for citizenship and immigrant integration
- Gain job skills for career advancement
With thousands of adult learners finding support through Monterey Adult School programs, the impact of adult education extends far beyond the classroom. When parents further their education, children see the value of learning firsthand. When adults succeed, families thrive, and our entire community grows stronger.
As MPUSD celebrates Adult Education Week, the district encourages the community to learn more about Monterey Adult School and share the power of education with those who may benefit. It’s never too late to learn something new.
A Rich History of Supporting Communities
Adult education in California dates back to 1856, when the first recorded adult education class was held in San Francisco to teach English to Irish, Italian, and Chinese immigrants. Since then, adult education programs have grown and evolved, responding to the economic, workforce, and lifelong learning needs of our diverse communities. Today, adult schools continue to play a critical role in workforce development, helping individuals gain skills to enter high-demand industries, re-enter the workforce, or pursue higher education.
Resilience in Challenging Times
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted just how vital adult education is for those facing economic and social hardships. Many adult learners struggle with poverty, unemployment, and barriers to education, yet they persist in pursuing opportunities for a better life. Whether they are recent dropouts returning to finish high school, immigrants working toward U.S. citizenship, or adults training for a new career, their commitment to learning is a testament to the power of education to change lives.
Honoring the Champions of Adult Education
During Adult Education Week, we recognize the hard work and dedication of the teachers, administrators, classified staff, and students who make adult education programs possible. Their efforts ensure that every adult learner has the opportunity to grow, succeed, and contribute to their families and communities.
Join us in celebrating Adult Education Week and the incredible impact of adult learning!
NOTE: Monterey Adult School Principal Beth Wodecki is the recipient of the Association of California School Administrators Region 10 Adult School Administrator of the Year. Region 10 represents Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz counties. Beth will be honored in May 2025 at an awards dinner.