Questions & Answers Forum

Tonya Crum "Everything we do starting with adult education and going through college courses and professional development-all of those things are a continuum, a journey for students to get to the position they want to achieve in life. We are all serving students who are moving along that continuum and the teachers who are trying to guide them."

Early in the new millennium, Tonya Crum answered a want ad that would change her life and the lives of many others. It was an ad for a director of workforce development and training for Kentucky Educational Television (KET), originator of award-winning multi-media materials designed specifically for adults and used throughout the nation.


Name:	Elizabeth Castanon
Address:	Graffiti Baptist Church, New York City
Question:	Hi My Name is Elizabeth. I need to know if all GED tests are the same level. I have lupus and I haven’t been in school for a long time. I took the test back in 1999 – didn’t pass it but I took it without studying. Now that I am sick I still want to retake the test. But I am afraid that I will not do well. What do you recommend for me? I am not able to sit for a long period of time. But this is a goal of mine and until I succeed to do this I will not be satisfied with my self. Please help.
Answer:	I truly admire your commitment to earning your GED. I can tell you that all of the tests are prepared for the same level of competency. So I would encourage you to start by contacting your local adult education center – they are really best suited to helping you prepare. I know that it can take a lot of courage to walk in there for the first time, especially after not being in school for a long time, but my experience is that you will find some very compassionate teachers ready to help. With their assistance, you will be better prepared than the first time you took the test. Also, if you tell them about your physical needs up front, they can accommodate you and adjust the times for taking the initial assessments. For instance, after one half hour the clock can be stopped, and you can stand, take a break, and then resume. Also, you can discuss the GED accommodation request and what is involved to apply for special consideration for the actual GED exam. I wish you all the best as you continue on your journey to success!