It’s true that many Metro-area schools and organizations offer no-cost GED preparation, but Takoda GED is unique.
We’re flexible.
Takoda GED is a drop-in program. We don’t have traditionally scheduled classes with mandatory attendance. This means that YOU are in charge of when you study. We understand that you have a lot going on in your life and that your schedule might be different each week—even each day! As long as the building is open (almost all weekdays from 9 am to 4:30 pm), you are welcome in our classroom. We strongly encourage our students to set a regular schedule, but we also know that life happens. If you have to take time off, we will be happy to see you when you return.
We’re small.
Takoda GED is a “one-room schoolhouse” within American Indian OIC. You won’t have to walk into a huge building, go up flights of stairs, or search for the right room in a maze of hallways. You won’t have a different teacher or need to worry about different expectations for each class. All of our students work on all subjects at all levels together in one classroom. You won’t get lost here!
We welcome everybody.
Though Takoda is based in a Native organization, all are welcome to receive education, training, and employment services. Takoda GED is no different. In fact, many non-Native students tell staff they enjoy learning about Native culture and traditions, and Native students enjoy experiencing the various cultures of their fellow classmates.
We get to know you.
Takoda GED staff and volunteers almost always work with students one-on-one. We know that all students and their circumstances are unique, so we don’t expect everyone to work towards their GED the same way. When you enroll in our program, we take the time to talk with you and learn about your past experiences and future goals. We use what you tell us to create a study plan that is personalized just for you.
We care about your opinions.
What do you think? Your ideas matter here. Our teachers work to find information and create assignments that are interesting and meaningful to you. A few of the issues we’ve covered lately include opioid use, the Navigation Center for residents of the Franklin Hiawatha Encampment, the importance of voting and the Minneapolis 2040 plan. If there’s a topic you want to learn about, let us know!
We help you with academic content as well as other issues that get in the way.
Reading, writing, and math probably aren’t the only challenges you’ve ever faced. We know that our students also want to enter living-wage employment, pursue higher education, care for their children and families, use computers with confidence, have safe and stable housing, manage their money effectively, and achieve good physical and mental health. Although our staff and volunteers aren’t experts in all of these areas, we will work with you to look for resources and solutions. Sometimes you might just need some food or a little caffeine…so we provide free coffee and snacks!
We help you figure out where to go next… and give you the individual support you need to actually get there.
Earning your GED is important, but it won’t be the end of your journey. We work with many students who already have a GED or high school diploma to help them prepare for their next steps. We can connect you to other programs within American Indian OIC, like employment services and training for in-demand careers at the Takoda Institute. We’re also happy to help you figure out how to apply to college, prepare for tests like the Accuplacer, or explore other options that will meet your education or employment plan.
In short, if you’re ready to commit to working towards your goals, Takoda GED is committed to helping you reach them. Contact our Navigator, Sára Kaiser, at sarak@takoda.org or 612-341-3358 to enroll now.
