COMPASS testing is designed to help you identify your academic strengths and plan for success in the educational program you choose at Hawkeye Community College. Specifically, you will learn about your skills in the areas of Reading, Mathematics, and Writing.
The Independence Center is an official COMPASS (Computerized Adaptive Placement Assessment and Support System) testing site.
The test is taken over the computer at the site of your choice. When completed the site coordinator will go over your scores and explain your options at that time. You do have the option of retaking part or all the COMPASS for an additional $5.00 per section.
Contact Audrey Sires for more information or to set up an appointment at 319-334-3131 or asires@hawkeyecollege.edu.
COMPASS testing is also offered on Main Campus. Contact the Student Services Office at 319-296-4014 or visit the Assessment and Testing web site for more information.
The center also offers the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) program for adults. Included in the WIA program are offers for several types of services including job training for low-income participants.
This program provides three levels of services for adults and dislocated workers: core, intensive, and training, with participants moving from one level to the next depending on their level of employment training needs.
To be eligible to participate in Staff-Assisted Core Services, an applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age or older and meet citizenship and selective service requirements. Individuals must meet income requirements and/or other eligibility criteria to receive intensive training and support services.
The Youth Program of the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) provides opportunities for assistance in both academic and occupational learning; developing leadership skills; and preparing for further education, additional training, and eventual employment.
Sue Peterson, a WIA specialist, is available at Hawkeye's Independence Center on Thursdays to assist local clients. For more information you can contact Sue at 319-334-7024 or sue.petersen@iwd.state.ia.us.
Promoting Independence and Self Sufficiency through Employment, PROMISE JOBS, is Iowa's welfare reform program designed to assist Family Investment Program (FIP) recipients to become self sufficient. PROMISE JOBS participants develop an individualized "Family Investment Agreement" (FIA) that outlines steps they will take to leave public assistance.
Jane Leaven is the PROMISE JOBS local specialist in Independence. Jane is available to meet with clients on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For more information you can contact Jane at 319-334-7024 or jane.leaven@iwd.state.ia.us.
GED (General Equivalency Diploma) programming is available at the Independence Center for those who did not graduate from high school but would like to earn their GED.
Adult Basic Education (ABE) is also available at the Independence Center. Classes are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:00-8:30pm.
For more information please contact Shirley at sbergman@hawkeyecollege.edu.
The Senior Companion volunteer program provides supportive person-to-person services to other adults who want to live independently. The program is an excellent example of seniors helping seniors. Tasks generally include helping with daily chores, writing letters, and grocery shopping.
Senior Companions are men and women age 60 and over who meet federal eligibility guidelines. Volunteers serve 20 hours/week and receive a small tax-free stipend, along with mileage, meal reimbursement, and paid days off for their time and effort.
To assist with the Senior Companion programming or for more information you can visit with Jan Jennings at in Independence on many Tuesdays. You can contact Jan at jjennings@hawkeyecollege.edu, 319-233-2627, or 319-334-3131
For information about opportunities at Hawkeye Community College Independence Center please contact us at 319-334-3131 or asires@hawkeyecollege.edu.
