Inside the Stone Education Center

Inside the Stone Education Center: Your Gateway to Educational and Career Success

Are you a service member, veteran, military spouse, or civilian in the Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) community looking to advance your education or career? Navigating the complex world of academic programs, financial aid, and professional development can often feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What resources are truly available to you?

This comprehensive guide takes you Inside the Stone Education Center, revealing how this vital hub at JBLM empowers individuals to achieve their educational and career aspirations. We'll explore its extensive services, dedicated support, and how it serves as a cornerstone for lifelong learning within the military community and beyond.

Understanding the David L. Stone Education Center

The David L. Stone Education Center, often simply referred to as the Stone Education Center, is a cornerstone of educational support at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington State. Named in honor of Major General David Lamme Stone, who famously developed and constructed Camp Lewis (now part of JBLM) in just 90 days during World War I, the center continues his legacy by fostering self-development and education.

Operated by Army Continuing Education Services (ACES), its mission is to provide quality education programs and services to a diverse population, including Soldiers, Families, Civilians, Retirees, and Veterans within the JBLM community. It's a place where ambition meets opportunity, offering guidance and resources to help individuals pursue academic and professional goals.

Comprehensive Educational Services Offered

The Stone Education Center is more than just a building; it's a dynamic ecosystem of support designed to address a wide array of educational needs. What exactly can you find when you step Inside the Stone Education Center?

Expert Education Advising

One of the primary services available is personalized education advising. Counselors provide guidance on:

• Academic programs and degree pathways.
• Tuition assistance (TA) and VA benefits, helping individuals understand and maximize their educational funding.
• Navigating platforms like GoArmyEd and ArmyIgnitED for class registration and tuition assistance applications.

These advisors are "well-versed in the G.I. Bill benefits" and can help map out a clear path toward earning a degree.

Extensive Testing Services

Whether you're looking to advance your military career or earn college credit, the center offers comprehensive testing support:

• Military Advancement Tests: This includes support for tests like AFCT, SIFT, and DLAB/DLPT.
• Language Testing: Defense Language Proficiency Test (DLPT) and Oral Proficiency Interviews are available.
• College Credit Exams: The center hosts a National Test Center operated by Pierce College, offering exams such as CLEP, DSST, and Pearson Vue certifications, which allow individuals to earn college credit for prior knowledge. Proctoring services are also available by appointment.

On-Base and Partnering Colleges

The Stone Education Center facilitates access to higher education by hosting offices for several on-base colleges and universities. This means you can pursue your degree without leaving JBLM. These institutions offer a wide variety of courses and programs, including in-person, hybrid, and online options.

Some of the colleges that regularly provide educational opportunities at JBLM include:

• Central Texas College
• Central Washington University
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Pierce College
• Saint Martin's University
• University of Maryland Global Campus
• University of Massachusetts Global Campus

These partnerships offer certificate, associate, bachelor's, and master's degree program options, with many certificate and associate degrees being transferable toward four-year programs.

Technology and Academic Resource Center (TARC)

The Technology and Academic Resource Center (TARC) within the Stone Education Center is a dedicated space designed for active-duty service members and other authorized users to focus on training, education, and self-development.

The TARC provides:

• Computers with internet access for coursework and military training.
• Fax machine services.
• CAC pin resets and digital signature capabilities.
• Support for programs like the Basic Skills Education Program (BSEP) for GT score improvement.

It's a valuable resource for quiet study, research, and online classes, ensuring individuals have the tools they need to succeed.

Supporting Your Career and Professional Development

Beyond academic degrees, the Stone Education Center plays a crucial role in career advancement and transition. They offer employment assistance resources to help individuals with career planning and advancement. Counselors at the center prioritize career goals, helping service members align their educational pursuits with their professional aspirations.

For those transitioning from military to civilian life, the center, often in conjunction with other JBLM resources like the Hawk Career Center, provides vital support for employment readiness and career choice counseling. This holistic approach ensures that individuals are not only educated but also equipped for successful careers.

How to Get Started at the Stone Education Center

Ready to explore the opportunities that await you Inside the Stone Education Center? The process is designed to be straightforward.

1. Contact for Advising: Your first step is often to schedule an appointment with an Education Advisor. You can do this through their online appointment portal.
2. Identify Your Goals: Work with an advisor to discuss your educational background, career aspirations, and what programs or services best fit your needs.
3. Explore Funding Options: Learn about your eligibility for Tuition Assistance (TA), GI Bill benefits, and other financial aid opportunities. Counselors are there to guide you through the application process.
4. Enroll in Programs: Whether it's an on-base college course, a specific test, or a professional development workshop, the center will guide you through the enrollment process.

The Stone Education Center is committed to supporting your educational journey, honoring the legacy of MG David Lamme Stone by fostering continuous learning and self-development for the entire JBLM community.

Conclusion

The David L. Stone Education Center stands as a testament to the power of accessible education and dedicated support. For service members, veterans, their families, and civilians at JBLM, it's a beacon of opportunity, offering everything from personalized academic advising and comprehensive testing services to on-base college programs and crucial career development resources. By stepping Inside the Stone Education Center, you gain access to a network of professionals and programs committed to helping you achieve your fullest potential.

Are you ready to take the next step in your educational or career journey? We encourage you to reach out to the Stone Education Center and discover how their resources can pave the way for your success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Who is eligible to use the services at the Stone Education Center?

The Stone Education Center primarily serves active-duty Soldiers, their Families, Civilians, Retirees, and Veterans within the Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) community.

Q2: What types of educational programs can I pursue through the Stone Education Center?

You can pursue a wide range of programs, including certificate, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees through on-base colleges. The center also supports basic skills improvement and provides resources for military-specific tests and certifications.

Q3: Can the Stone Education Center help me with Tuition Assistance (TA) or GI Bill benefits?

Yes, the center offers comprehensive education advising, including guidance on academic programs, tuition assistance (TA), and VA benefits like the GI Bill. Their counselors are well-versed in these benefits and can help you navigate the application process.

Q4: Are there computer facilities available for studying at the Stone Education Center?

Yes, the Technology and Academic Resource Center (TARC) within the Stone Education Center provides computers with internet access for coursework, military training, and self-development for authorized users.