Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)Where are the classes held?
Acalanes Adult Education is located at the Del Valle Education Center, 1963 Tice Valley Blvd in Walnut Creek, adjacent to Rossmoor. All classes on the schedule are at Del Valle Education Center except those specifically noted as being elsewhere. Most classes will be held in the 100 Building and the fitness classes are held in room 303 in the 300 Building.. When classes are given at satellite locations, the address is given in the class schedule.
How can I prove I took a course at the Acalanes Adult Center?
Upon request, a certificate of hours attended will be provided. When the class is a part of the Adult Secondary Program, a transcript showing units and grades earned can be provided. Requests for attendance verification need to be made within one year of the class.
Are textbooks used?
All Adult Secondary classes have texts. Students borrow the books by paying a $60 deposit which is refunded in full when the books are returned in good condition. Most ESL classes use texts which are in the classroom. Students preferring to have their own copy may purchase the text from the main office in the 100 Building. Many world language classes, and a few other classes such as computers, have texts. The teacher will provide the information on what texts will be used at the first class. The Adult Center orders some texts for students to purchase. It is strongly recommended that texts not be purchased until after attending the first class to verify both that the class is appropriate and how much the teacher plans to use the text. There are no refunds for texts purchased..
Why are there so many personal questions on the registration form?
The Adult Center receives state support for some of classes. The State of California requires the data requested on the students attending these classes. The State looks at the data in total, not individually, to understand what types of students attend adult education classes in California as a whole.
Is the Acalanes Adult Center accredited?
The Adult Center is approved by the California Department of Education and complies with its rules and regulations. It is not accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. All adult schools in California are administered through the K-12 program.
How do I enroll in an ESL class?
Students need to be 18 years of age to attend ESL classes. To register for a class the student needs to take an assessment test which is offered on Del Valle campus, at 1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. To confirm the testing and class schedule see the ESL page on this website or call the office. After the test, the staff will discuss the placement and assign the student to an appropriate class.
Why do ESL students have to take tests?
There are two reasons that students taking ESL classes are required to take tests. First, the tests give the staff and the student a good idea of the appropriate level of class for the student to take. Second, testing is a way that the Adult Center demonstrates accountability for the quality of instruction to the California Department of Education. This is required because the State funds a portion of the ESL program. The Adult Center greatly appreciates an ESL student notification when leaving so that the exit test can be administered. The Center receives some additional funding when the student progress can be documented with an exit examination.
Where do I register for classes?
In most cases registration is through the Acalanes Adult Center main office at 1963 Tice Valley Blvd. Walnut Creek, in the 100 office. The phone number is 925-280-3980 ext 8001 and the fax is 925-280-3981. However, in a few satellite or partnership programs such as those at the Rossmoor Computer Club, the student may register directly with that organization. The contact address and phone number are noted in the schedule for these classes.
Refund Policy
Since offering classes is determined by the number registered in the class, no class fees will be refunded for any reason if requested more than three business days after the first class meeting. There will be a $10 service charge for any refund made. In the event that the class is cancelled by AAEC (for any reason) a full refund will be made.
Parking
Parking is limited at Del Valle campus. The main parking lot is to the right as one comes up the hill. I took the GED test several years ago at Acalanes Adult Center. How do I get proof of the results?
Persons who acquired a GED certificate from tests given at the Acalanes Adult Center prior to 2003 and need a duplicate copy of the results can obtain a transcript or a new certificate from the GED/ETS Records Center. Their phone number is 866-370-4740. Dialing this number will connect to an Auto-tron that guides one through the steps to request the records. There is a charge for the transcript or the certificate. Payment can be made only with a money order. ETS - GED Records Center, P.O. Box 4005, Concord, CA 94524-4005.
Can I take the GED at the Acalanes Adult Center?
The Acalanes Adult Center no longer administers the official test but offers a class in the learning lab to prepare one to take the test. This can include practice taking sample tests. The Learning Lab instructor can direct students to Centers where the test is given.
Are parenting classes qualified to meet court ordered classes for parents?
The Acalanes Adult Center appears on many court lists as an accepted resource for parenting classes. All of the Acalanes class descriptions and their schedules are on this web site under parent education. It is recommended that the student show the information to the appropriate court or organization and get prior approval to take the specific class. The Acalanes Adult Center will provide a certificate of attendance upon request.
