River Valley Resources Receives Program of Excellence Award

RVR is one of 21 adult education programs across the state to earn the designation.

(Madison, Ind.) - Earlier this week, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development notified 21 adult education programs across the state of their designation as a Program of Excellence. DWD started this designation in 2022-23 to recognize adult education programs that meet multiple state and federal metrics around student academic achievement, enrollment, partnering with employers, offering high-demand wage training, and high school equivalencies earned.

River Valley Resources Adult Education has earned this designation for the second year in a row. Southern Indiana experiences the positive impact of adult education success through increased economic activity and workforce participation of students who are upskilled through career training and foundational education credential. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the average yearly wage increase of earning a high school credential at $8,400. The high school credential also provides access to postsecondary education or training, which further increases Hoosier employment and economic opportunities.

DWD Commissioner, Richard Paulk, recognizes the critical work a local adult education program contributes to the state, “Indiana continues to excel as a state, leading the nation in student outcomes for the past six years, due to the hard work, dedication, and innovative practices being implemented at the program level in communities every day.”
All programs will be recognized by DWD Adult Education leadership at the Indiana Association and of Adult and Continuing Education award ceremony on October 3, 2024.

River Valley Resources Adult Education Director Katie Walton experiences firsthand the impact adult education services can have on adults. “RVR is proud to help create innovative adult education programs that serve our communities. Last year, nearly 1,000 students throughout the 12 counties we serve were able to earn valuable workplace credentials and/or high school equivalencies to move them forward in their life pursuits,” said Walton.

Indiana Adult Education enrolled over 25,000 adult students across the state in the most recent program year and is a national leader in student achievement, high school equivalency diplomas earned, career certifications, and employer-based education. For more information on Indiana Adult Education, please visit DWD: AmplifyAE (in.gov)