Adult education can open the door to a better life. It can help someone get a good job, support their family, and feel proud of their future. Here in Kern, Inyo, Mono, and Tulare Counties and across the entire Central Valley, many adults are choosing to return to school. They want new skills, new chances, new hope, and adult education makes that possible.
In communities like Bakersfield, Delano, Porterville, Mojave, McFarland, Inyo and Mono Counties, adults of all ages are taking the next step. Some want to finish high school. Others want to learn English, earn a certificate, or start a new career. No matter the goal, adult education gives people the tools they need to succeed.
Many adults in our region have not had the chance to finish formal school. According to the American Community Survey, for adults aged 25 and older in the region:
- 24% have no high school degree
- 27% have a high school diploma
- 31% have some college but no degree
- 12% have a bachelor’s degree
- 6% have a post‑graduate degree
This means many adults are still working on their education and they are not alone. Adult education programs are here to help.
The Kern Adult Education Consortium (KAEC) supports learners across 15 locations in Kern, Inyo, Tulare, and Mono Counties. These include Bakersfield Adult School, Delano Adult School, Porterville Adult School, Mojave Adult School, McFarland Adult School, Muroc Adult School, Sierra Sands Adult School, Tehachapi Adult School, Kern County Office of Education, Mono County Office of Education, the Inyo County Office of Education, Bakersfield College, Porterville College, and Cerro Coso Community College.
KAEC’s mission is simple: help adults gain the education and training they need to find meaningful work and build a strong future.
KAEC works closely with the local Workforce Development Boards to make sure programs match real job needs in our area. The Central Valley has many growing job fields. The California Employment Development Department (EDD) shows long‑term job growth in healthcare, education, transportation, public service, and skilled trades. These jobs often need training or certificates which adult education helps people obtain.
In the Bakersfield area, healthcare support jobs like medical assistants, nursing assistants, and pharmacy technicians are growing. In Porterville, Delano, and Mono and Inyo Counties, jobs in early childhood education, classroom support, and public service are also increasing. These careers offer steady work and wages that can support a family. When adults earn a diploma or certificate, they can apply for better jobs with benefits, stable hours, and long‑term growth.
Adult education also helps families. When parents learn, children learn too. Better jobs mean more stable income. Learning English helps parents talk with teachers and doctors. Career training helps adults move into fields with family‑sustainable wages. Finishing high school builds confidence and opens doors to college. Education strengthens families and communities.
KAEC programs understand that adults are busy. Many work long hours while caring for children or other family members. That’s why classes are offered in the morning, afternoon, evening, and online. Learning is flexible and built for real life.
When adults learn, our whole region grows. Bakersfield becomes stronger. Porterville becomes stronger. Delano becomes stronger. Mono and Inyo Counties become stronger. Every community in the Central Valley benefits when adults have access to education.
No matter your age or your past, you can build a brighter future. Adult education is the first step — and KAEC is here to help you take it.
Written by: Monika Roberts