NASHVILLE (AP) — Gov. Bill Haslam has announced that more than 10,000 adults have applied to Tennessee Reconnect, the state's new program that allows adults, no matter their age, to go to community college or technical schools tuition-free.

Haslam said the immense interest in the program shows that Tennesseans understand the value of education and training beyond high school. The governor's statement said the investment in Tennessee's workforce is creating a solid foundation for the state's economic future.

Applications for the program opened on Feb. 15. State officials are encouraging people to apply by April 15 to complete all steps for fall enrollment. Tennesseans can still apply all year round.

State officials say the average applicant age is 34 years old, but some people in their late 70s and early 80s have applied.