Rochester Community Schools is opening its free adult education programs on Monday, Aug. 24, giving Greater Rochester adults a no-cost path to a high school diploma, GED or English language skills.

The district's Rochester Adult and Community Education center, known as RACE, offers three tracks: English as a Second Language classes, high school diploma completion and GED skills courses. All are free.

Classes begin the same day K-12 students return for the 2026-27 school year.

Rochester Community Schools announced the programs Aug. 10 on X, with walk-in registration set for Aug. 17, 18 and 20. The district said options include ESL, diploma completion and GED skills classes, all beginning Aug. 24.

RACE is not a new program. The center's page on the district website has been active since at least January, indicating an established offering within the district rather than a first-year launch.

What each track offers

High school diploma and GED classes are held twice a week, either afternoons or evenings, and include career advising and workforce training alongside academic coursework.

ESL classes are free for beginning and intermediate levels and also meet twice a week, either mornings or evenings.

How to enroll

Walk-in registration is scheduled for Aug. 17, 18 and 20, promptly at 9 a.m. or 6 p.m., at the Rochester Adult Center for Education, 1440 John R Road, Rochester Hills. Registration takes about three hours to complete, and attendees should arrive on time and bring a valid U.S. driver's license or passport.

Adults with questions can call 248-726-5950 for general information or 248-726-5952 to schedule a diploma or GED registration appointment. More details are available at rochester.k12.mi.us/schools/race.

What's ahead

Teachers report Tuesday, Aug. 18. Adult education and K-12 classes both launch Monday, Aug. 24.