North Georgia Technical College’s (NGTC) Towns County Adult Education Center has celebrated a milestone, awarding its first GED diploma since reopening in fall 2024.
The honor went to Kiley Shaffer of Hiawassee, who became the first adult education student at the new location to complete her coursework and pass all four GED tests. Her accomplishment was made possible in part by the HOPE Scholarship, which covered the cost of the exams and can also be applied toward future college-level coursework, according to NGTC.
“I am so proud of Kiley,” said Deanne Oppermann, NGTC adult education instructor. “Not only did she earn her GED, but she is now studying to be a CNA, which will offer her a better career path with higher earnings.”
The reopening of the adult education program has restored valuable opportunities for Northeast Georgia residents. Free GED preparation classes are available to adults who want to further their education or improve their career prospects.
Classes are offered on a drop-in basis on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 2 to 7:30 p.m. Students ages 16–18 must present a withdrawal form from high school and have a parent or guardian present to authorize registration.
The NGTC Adult Education Center is located at the Towns County Recreation Center, 900 North Main Street in Hiawassee.
