For adult learners like Victoria Sias, Harris County Department of Education’s (HCDE) Adult Education division is about offering life-changing opportunities.

From English as a Second Language (ESL), High School Equivalency (HSE, formerly GED) and Citizenship classes, to workforce certification offerings, Adult Education and its staff lead the way in helping students acquire skills needed to earn a HSE diploma, enter college or succeed in their careers.

The latest opportunity is an ESL Phlebotomy class, which debuted last week with a near-capacity enrollment. 

HCDE’s workforce certification classes include certified nursing assistant, electrocardiograph technician, information technology helpdesk and construction. Many are offered in both general and ESL formats. During the 2023-2024 academic year, Adult Education served more than 5,700 students. 

“We are immensely proud of the students who are participating in our inaugural Phlebotomy class designed for English language learners,” said Dr. Eduardo Honold, Adult Education senior director. “This program equips them with essential vocational skills while providing targeted English language support. Bilingual professionals are in high demand within Houston’s healthcare sector, and HCDE is addressing this need through these specialized classes. We are committed to expanding our vocational programs for English language learners, empowering these adults to reach their full potential.” 

Among the students in the inaugural class is Sias, who conquered an additional hurdle before even stepping foot in this new class. 

“I’ve wanted to get into phlebotomy since I was 21,” she said. “But I couldn’t because I didn’t have a high school diploma.” 

Sias’ story is similar to a number of her classmates.

“I was working on my GED back in December and heard about this class,” Jessica Banda said. “I was really interested because I wanted to get into the medical field and this was the opportunity to get in.” 

Added Karina Granados: “I saw the flyer and had friends tell me about the class. This is helpful. It shows people that we are smart and we do want to help.” 

Students will develop skills in blood collection methods on adults, children and infants, using proper techniques and standard precautions. Class modules will include the overview of the human body, circulatory system and nonblood specimens. Additionally, students will study legal and ethical issues, communication and patient care, and safety measures and healthcare settings.  

Enrollment includes instruction, classroom materials and the National Healthcare Association certification examination. 

Courses taught in the ESL format is an added benefit for those students who may have otherwise struggled in a general education setting. Since all students in the ESL courses share the same designation, they say the common bond helps build better relationships among classmates. 

“These courses do more than just teach practical skills; they open doors to new careers, providing a pathway to economic stability and personal growth,” Adult Education Director Linda Fehoko said. “Imagine the confidence gained from mastering a new language while acquiring a valuable healthcare skill. This dual achievement not only makes our ESL students more competitive in the job market but also instills a sense of pride and accomplishment. It’s about more than just a job—it’s about building a future; it’s about inspiring change and building a better tomorrow.” 

Through partnerships with area agencies and businesses, Adult Education is also able to help connect its students with employers for potential job opportunities. At its inaugural Career Pathways Signing Day ceremony last year, more than 25 top Harris County companies from various industries, including healthcare, offered employment opportunities to Adult Education students. 

“It’s been very exciting and very informative so far,” Sias said. “I think this is remarkable. I’ve never seen an educational place do something like this, which I think is really great and very beneficial to us.”