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September 02, 2026
Back-to-school season highlights Michigan’s $42 million investment to support adult learners and create pathways to better jobs and higher wages
LANSING, Mich. — As students across Michigan prepare to head back to the classroom, thousands of adults are also taking the next step in their education journey through Michigan's Adult Education programs, thanks in part to Gov. Whitmer's fiscal year 2027 budget that includes more than $42 million to support Adult Education programs. This back-to-school season, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) is encouraging adults who have not completed high school, want to strengthen their literacy skills, or are preparing for a new career to explore the free or low-cost Adult Education services available across the state. Each year, nearly 30,000 Michiganders participate in these programs, building the skills and securing the credentials needed for brighter futures.
"It's never too late to continue your education or pursue new opportunities," said LEO Director Susan Corbin. "Whether someone wants to earn a high school diploma or equivalency, improve their English language skills or prepare for a better-paying career, Michigan's Adult Education programs provide the support and resources to help them succeed. Every Michigander deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential."
Adult Education programs provide instruction tailored to each learner's individual needs, helping participants improve reading, writing and math skills, earn a high school diploma or equivalency, learn English and prepare for college, career training and employment. The programs are designed to help adults earn the credentials and build the skills they need to achieve economic self-sufficiency while creating pathways to long-term success.
“The impact of Adult Education extends well beyond the classroom,” said LEO Workforce Development Director Krista Johnson. “Adult Education programs help parents become more engaged in their children's education while improving economic opportunities for the entire family, creating benefits that can last for generations.”
The data is clear — the more you learn, the more you can earn. Michiganders with a high school credential can earn at least $7,600 more per year than those without one. Those who then go on to attain a two-year degree can earn an additional $24,500 more per year. That’s why it’s important to expand access to affordable education opportunities that help more Michiganders take the next step.
For Flint resident Nichole Wright, passing the GED® and earning her High School Equivalency Certificate became a turning point as she worked to build a more stable future. Wright and her father were experiencing homelessness and living in a motel when she enrolled in the Mott Community College Workforce Development Center’s GED program. She rode the bus to class each day while working to secure stable housing, ultimately passing the GED in October 2025. Today, Wright is pursuing an associate degree in accounting at Mott Community College.
“My journey has taught me that difficult circumstances do not have to determine your destination,” said Wright. “Sometimes, success begins with simply taking the next step. I took that step — and I am excited to see where this journey leads.”
Michigan's Adult Education programs also support English language learners, immigrants, adults seeking to advance their careers and individuals preparing to reenter the workforce. Through 120 Adult Education programs located across the state, participants receive the academic instruction, workforce preparation and support needed to achieve their goals.
Michigan continues to invest in expanding access to Adult Education across the state. The state’s fiscal year 2027 budget includes more than $42 million to support Adult Education programs, helping providers continue offering instruction that prepares adults for college, career training and in-demand jobs while strengthening Michigan's workforce.
Adults without a high school diploma are encouraged to contact their nearest Adult Education provider. LEO has an online tool, the Adult Education Services Locator, which helps visitors search for a variety of nearby services by entering their city or ZIP code.
For more information about Adult Education programs in Michigan and to use the Adult Education Services Locator tool, go to Michigan.gov/LearnMoreEarnMore.
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