Vermont Adult Learning helps adult learners, ages 16 and older, acquire reading, writing, math, and computer skills to earn high school diplomas/GEDs. We teach English Language Learners skills to advance educationally and at work. We engage in workforce development. Our services are offered at no cost and are available in person and online. Text VAL to 833-900-0907 or contact a Learning Center nearest to you to learn more!
Interested in remote learning? Check out VAL’s Online Learning Center (OLC) course catalog.
Note for in-person learning: We no longer require masks in our learning centers. Anyone at high risk or wishing to continue wearing a mask for other reasons is welcome to do so. We will continue to have masks available in our centers for those who need them.
Those who choose to wear a mask do so because it is a decision they have made for their health and safety. Vermont Adult Learning expects that decision to be respected. If you have concerns about your safety, please let us know so we can discuss options to address them.
Bobby: “I would never have been lucky enough to find the career of my dreams.” (11/15/2025) - Bobby, a father of three who earned his GED through VAL, discovered an interest in renovation work after graduating. He saw an ad for VAL’s Energy Works program and eagerly enrolled in the two-week weatherization training, mastering new tools and earning Industry-Recognized Credentials that helped him secure his dream job with CVOEO’s weatherization team. When invited to testify to the Vermont Senate Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs last spring, he enthusiastically agreed. Shared below is Bobby's public testimony, which you can also find on the State Legislature's website here. "Thank you for having me here to talk… 
Hussam: “I look forward to learning even more!” (11/14/2025) - When Hussam arrived in Rutland nearly eight years ago, he brought with him not only his family and a deep sense of hope but also a dream to continue to build his career. Back home in Syria, Hussam worked as an accountant before conflict forced his family to flee to Turkey, where they lived before being resettled in Vermont. Originally bound for Los Angeles, Hussam received a last-minute call from the UN letting him know that he and his family would instead be starting their new lives in Rutland. “It was a big change,” he said with a laugh, recalling… 
Damien: “Today, I am more me than I have ever been.” (11/13/2025) - Damien was the student guest speaker at our recent 45th Anniversary event, where we welcomed current and former students, staff, community partners, and local lawmakers to honor VAL's legacy. Damien shared his inspiring story about the path to VAL and how the friendly folks at our Middlebury Learning Center have helped him on his educational journey. We hope you enjoy reading Damien's speech from that night as much as we enjoyed hearing it! "Hey, hi, hello. I'm Damien, and I've come today to talk a bit about my time at VAL. I was asked to speak today by one of… 
Genesis: “I am reassured that having my diploma will open doors for me to explore.” (11/12/2025) - During our Chittenden County Learning Center graduation celebration earlier this fall, Genesis shared her journey of resilience and determination. Her speech reminds us that every step toward education is a step toward new possibilities: "Hello, my name is Genesis. I’d like to start off by thanking the VAL staff for being so supportive and helpful to every student who comes through their doors. I remember the first day I came into VAL because I finally felt ready to get my diploma. I remember being nervous and thinking I might not be able to fit it into my busy schedule. I… 
Erin: “I am a proud Vermont Adult Learner.” (11/10/2025) - This September, our Rutland County Learning Center celebrated its graduates, and Erin, who recently earned her GED after overcoming tremendous personal challenges, took to the stage to share her journey. Her words, shared here, reflect the power of perseverance, education, and hope: "Good evening, it is an honor to be here with you all! My name is Erin, and I will be sharing a bit about my journey tonight. Adult education has empowered me to pursue my goals with confidence, creating a foundation for a meaningful legacy. First, I will share why earning my GED was such a big deal… © Vermont Adult Learning