DES MOINES, Iowa —

Des Moines Area Community College could be in a tough spot if Congress allows federal funding for adult education programming to expire at the end of June.

The federal funding — about $715 million nationwide and $4.3 million in Iowa — supports programs like HiSET (high school equivalency classes). Officials say it also backs English-language learning and integrated education and training programs, including CDL and CNA training. Adult education serves more than 11,000 students across the state in fiscal year 2024. The average annual cost per student at DMACC is $500 to $700.

Emma Selby of Ankeny, who earned her HiSET diploma through DMACC in 2024, said, "I'm super proud of it because I didn't think I would get to this point. Not at all."

Enrolling one month after giv

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