NORMAL - Local GED and adult literacy programs will be offered starting Aug. 31, now that state and federal funding is secured.

Libby Smith, director of General Educational Development (GED) and adult literacy programs for the Regional Office of Education in Normal, said last week that Gov. Pat Quinn has restored enough state funding to qualify the program for federal funding. She said previously that fall classes would have to be canceled without state money.

While dollar amounts haven't been released yet, Smith said she expects about a 10 percent cut in state funding and about a 14 percent reduction in federal money.

That's good news, considering Smith was looking at a budget that was 30 percent of last year's. That would result in "dramatic cuts in what we offer."

Prospective students have been calling all summer to see when classes would begin, she said.

Smith estimates her office will be able to serve up to 750 people in DeWitt, Livingston and McLean Counties this year. It served 800 last year.

Smith said the reasons students enroll in GED or adult literacy classes are varied. Some do it for personal satisfaction, but others need a GED to get or keep a job.

There are waiting lists at times, but Smith said she hopes to be able to serve all of those who want to enroll in the programs.

Quinn's announcement also meant Smith was able to rehire the 42 staff members laid off on July 1.

"That was the best e-mail I ever sent," Smith said.