Moonlight provides programming first at Proctor Recreation Center and at other locations as needed. Established in Peoria, Illinois in 1994 as a crime prevention program that offered both recreational and instructional activities to youth, Moonlight has grown into a state and federally recognized partner in providing education, high school equivalency degree preparation, and post-secondary education and career transition links to local adult learners. Unlike other adult learning programs with term-based calendars, Moonlight offers ongoing enrollment for students aged 16 and older. Because Moonlight maintains a focus on accessibility for students, meeting them whenever possible where they work and live, classes are offered year-round both day and evening at two primary locations in Peoria (Proctor Recreation Center and Logan Recreation Center). Additionally, whenever possible, one-on-one or small group tutoring sessions can be arranged between student(s) at alternative times and/or locations, including virtual sessions. Students aged 16 and over are eligible to enroll but must be at least 17 years of age before testing for the high school equivalency exams. Instruction, supplies, and materials are provided in all areas of GED® exam preparation: reading, social studies, science, math, and writing. Instructors are certified teachers, college students, and professionals in related fields. Access to computers is provided for practice testing and to increase computer literacy and competency in use of digital tools. The length of a student’s program depends upon class attendance, content mastery, and test readiness as determined by Moonlight instructional staff. GED® exam fees are paid by Moonlight for all students who demonstrate readiness for testing. In addition to literacy instruction and test preparation, Moonlight offers job preparedness and training to qualifying students. Students must attend classes and are concurrently enrolled in part-time employment with community partners who offer training and experience in job-related skills. Job coaches are provided who visit the job sites and work with employer and students to develop workplace competency. Upon completion of GED and work training requirements, students are provided transition assistance to post-secondary education, training, and employment opportunities. All services provided by Moonlight Coalition are dependent upon funding through state and local grants, philanthropic support, volunteer efforts, private donations, and the administrative support of the Peoria Park District Foundation. For more information, to make a donation, or to volunteer, please contact Moonlight Coalition for Adult Learning at any of the following:
• Moonlight Coalition for Adult Learning, Peoria Park District
1125 W. Lake Avenue, Peoria, IL 61614
• https://peoriaparks.org/program/moonlight-coalition/
• Moonlight Coalition for Adult Learning on Facebook
