Adult Basic Education

Abstract:

Don’t just present—make an impact. Join COABE PD Coordinator Steve Schmidt and AALPD’s Kim Glenn and Sarah Goldammer for a dynamic webinar on creating engaging, memorable conference presentations. Learn proven strategies to capture attention, avoid common mistakes, and deliver sessions that participants rave about long after the conference ends. Drawing on over 80 years of combined presenting experience, our presenters will share practical tips you can use immediately to elevate your COABE session from good to unforgettable. Original webinar date: March 19, 2026 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/N0oUmYd77Ic  

Abstract:

This meeting focused on sharing best practices and challenges in adult education, particularly around ESL programs and workforce development. Participants discussed various initiatives including college and career readiness labs, apprenticeship programs, digital literacy efforts, and strategies for supporting ESL students during challenging times. Key topics included the implementation of Career Gateway classes that simulate workplace experiences, partnerships with employers for workplace learning, and the challenges of providing services to ESL students in correctional settings. Several participants shared resources including AI literacy lesson plans, digital literacy frameworks, and community partnerships, while others discussed the importance of trauma-informed instruction and multi-generational impact of adult education programs. The meeting highlighted successful collaborations between state directors, local programs, and employers, with participants emphasizing the value of working together to create pathways for adult learners.

Summary

College Career Readiness Program Development

Tammy described their college and career readiness lab, which offers various training programs like health sciences and HR, supported by Michigan Works and grants. The lab has created a class called Career Gateway that simulates a job environment, focusing on resume writing, cover letters, and LinkedIn creation for their high ESL population. Adrienne mentioned Louisiana's progress in developing pathways and hiring staff to coordinate between K-12, adult education, and CTE programs. Both Tammy and Adrienne noted challenges in apprenticeships, with limited opportunities and a mismatch between ESL students' needs and available programs.

ESL Workforce Preparation Programs Update

The meeting focused on ESL and workforce preparation programs, with Tammy discussing Career Gateway classes for intermediate to advanced students and Raynell presenting a new 8-week civics and citizenship pathway pilot using the USCIS civics test and Burlington English modules. Hannah shared World Relief's approach to teaching Know Your Rights information to refugee students, including memorizing A numbers and emergency contacts, and discussed their transition to online classes using Signal as a communication tool, which has maintained attendance despite the pandemic.

Education Collaboration and Workforce Challenges

Lynnette shared that recent administrative changes have led to more collaborative partnerships and outreach efforts in education, particularly in working with city hall offices to ensure student safety. Dinash discussed a challenge with their 25-year-old initiative in New York State, highlighting a disconnect between their computer technology services and the local workforce needs in the Rust Belt region, where traditional industries have disappeared, leaving a gap between available certifications and actual job opportunities.

AI in Education and Literacy

The group discussed using AI to analyze educational data, with Lynnette sharing that 65,000 people in their city lack a high school diploma or GED, and Ashley announced the release of a new digital literacy toolkit. Glenda and Ashley highlighted their work on AI literacy and digital skills training, while Alethea presented Upwardly Global as a resource for helping immigrants and refugees restart their careers in the U.S. through professional training and job placement services.

IET Programs in Correctional Settings

Tammy explained that county correctional facilities have been unable to implement IET (Individualized Education Training) programs effectively due to high turnover and restrictions on working with violent inmates. Shaketta inquired about successful IET programs in correctional settings, particularly in state prisons, and Kristine shared that Minnesota has developed a digital literacy curriculum that's been adapted for use in correctional settings, noting that their Lindale program in Minneapolis created a modified version of the North Star digital literacy curriculum that's more accessible for learners.

Adult Education Best Practices Sharing

The meeting focused on sharing best practices and resources in adult education. Glenda highlighted Texas's successful coordination between education and workforce agencies to streamline services for learners. Nakita discussed South Dakota's new volunteer training program using Monday.com, aimed at increasing classroom support. Adrienne praised Tracy for redesigning their website to better serve students, providers, and partners. Heather shared Memphis's success in workplace learning, particularly through a partnership with a distribution center and an apprenticeship program with IUPAT.

Adult Education Best Practices Sharing

The meeting focused on sharing resources and best practices in adult education. Xavier presented AI literacy lesson plans developed by his organization, while Patsy highlighted Minnesota's work on trauma-informed instruction and immigration-related resources. Echo discussed the need to update digital literacy frameworks, emphasizing the importance of literacy skills for accessing vocational programs. Tim shared a powerful success story of a student who went on to achieve academic and professional success, highlighting the impact of trauma-informed education. Sharon, representing COABE, encouraged participants to share their challenges and ideas, offering support and resources. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between state directors, state associations, and local programs, and encouraged participants to register for the upcoming COABE conference.

Meeting date: March 10, 2026 Meeting recording link: https://youtu.be/qoX5PbooNSw

Abstract:

As correctional and reentry education continues to evolve, the field stands at a pivotal moment shaped by technological innovation, policy reform, and a growing recognition of the power of education to transform lives. In this webinar, Jeffrey Abramowitz, returning citizen, educator, administrator, and subject matter expert—will explore emerging trends and challenges in correctional and reentry education. Drawing from lived experience, participants will examine new approaches to technology integration, workforce development, digital literacy, and postrelease support. Original webinar date: March 12, 2026 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/U5XHmrkX2oU

Abstract:

This meeting focused on sharing best practices and challenges in adult education, particularly around ESL programs and workforce development. Participants discussed various initiatives including college and career readiness labs, apprenticeship programs, digital literacy efforts, and strategies for supporting ESL students during challenging times. Key topics included the implementation of Career Gateway classes that simulate workplace experiences, partnerships with employers for workplace learning, and the challenges of providing services to ESL students in correctional settings. Several participants shared resources including AI literacy lesson plans, digital literacy frameworks, and community partnerships, while others discussed the importance of trauma-informed instruction and multi-generational impact of adult education programs. The meeting highlighted successful collaborations between state directors, local programs, and employers, with participants emphasizing the value of working together to create pathways for adult learners.

Summary

College Career Readiness Program Development

Tammy described their college and career readiness lab, which offers various training programs like health sciences and HR, supported by Michigan Works and grants. The lab has created a class called Career Gateway that simulates a job environment, focusing on resume writing, cover letters, and LinkedIn creation for their high ESL population. Adrienne mentioned Louisiana's progress in developing pathways and hiring staff to coordinate between K-12, adult education, and CTE programs. Both Tammy and Adrienne noted challenges in apprenticeships, with limited opportunities and a mismatch between ESL students' needs and available programs.

ESL Workforce Preparation Programs Update

The meeting focused on ESL and workforce preparation programs, with Tammy discussing Career Gateway classes for intermediate to advanced students and Raynell presenting a new 8-week civics and citizenship pathway pilot using the USCIS civics test and Burlington English modules. Hannah shared World Relief's approach to teaching Know Your Rights information to refugee students, including memorizing A numbers and emergency contacts, and discussed their transition to online classes using Signal as a communication tool, which has maintained attendance despite the pandemic.

Education Collaboration and Workforce Challenges

Lynnette shared that recent administrative changes have led to more collaborative partnerships and outreach efforts in education, particularly in working with city hall offices to ensure student safety. Dinash discussed a challenge with their 25-year-old initiative in New York State, highlighting a disconnect between their computer technology services and the local workforce needs in the Rust Belt region, where traditional industries have disappeared, leaving a gap between available certifications and actual job opportunities.

AI in Education and Literacy

The group discussed using AI to analyze educational data, with Lynnette sharing that 65,000 people in their city lack a high school diploma or GED, and Ashley announced the release of a new digital literacy toolkit. Glenda and Ashley highlighted their work on AI literacy and digital skills training, while Alethea presented Upwardly Global as a resource for helping immigrants and refugees restart their careers in the U.S. through professional training and job placement services.

IET Programs in Correctional Settings

Tammy explained that county correctional facilities have been unable to implement IET (Individualized Education Training) programs effectively due to high turnover and restrictions on working with violent inmates. Shaketta inquired about successful IET programs in correctional settings, particularly in state prisons, and Kristine shared that Minnesota has developed a digital literacy curriculum that's been adapted for use in correctional settings, noting that their Lindale program in Minneapolis created a modified version of the North Star digital literacy curriculum that's more accessible for learners.

Adult Education Best Practices Sharing

The meeting focused on sharing best practices and resources in adult education. Glenda highlighted Texas's successful coordination between education and workforce agencies to streamline services for learners. Nakita discussed South Dakota's new volunteer training program using Monday.com, aimed at increasing classroom support. Adrienne praised Tracy for redesigning their website to better serve students, providers, and partners. Heather shared Memphis's success in workplace learning, particularly through a partnership with a distribution center and an apprenticeship program with IUPAT.

Adult Education Best Practices Sharing

The meeting focused on sharing resources and best practices in adult education. Xavier presented AI literacy lesson plans developed by his organization, while Patsy highlighted Minnesota's work on trauma-informed instruction and immigration-related resources. Echo discussed the need to update digital literacy frameworks, emphasizing the importance of literacy skills for accessing vocational programs. Tim shared a powerful success story of a student who went on to achieve academic and professional success, highlighting the impact of trauma-informed education. Sharon, representing COABE, encouraged participants to share their challenges and ideas, offering support and resources. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between state directors, state associations, and local programs, and encouraged participants to register for the upcoming COABE conference.

Meeting date: March 10, 2026 Meeting recording link: https://youtu.be/qoX5PbooNSw

Abstract:

Correctional educators often work in isolation, navigating complex security protocols, restricted technology, and high student turnover with limited resources and financial support. This webinar introduces COABEs new Transforming Correctional Education Community of Practice (CoP), and information about the inaugural cohort, which will support the Community of Practice. We invite on-the-ground correctional educators to join the Community of Practice, which is designed to reduce professional isolation, strengthen instructional quality, and foster shared expertise across states. Grounded in three core pillars—cultivating excellence, fostering a trusted community, and developing shared practice—this session highlights how COABE is helping to build a collaborative network that can transform both educator experience and student outcomes in correctional settings. Participants will explore how a strategic partnership with COABE can serve as a force multiplier through national advocacy, professional development, and resource sharing. The session outlines an actionable implementation roadmap for the new cohort, along with measurable success indicators, and opportunities for leadership engagement. Attendees will leave with an understanding of how the new Correctional Education Community of Practice and Cohort will be launched and the next steps for those interested in joining the inaugural 1-year cohort. Webinar date: March 9, 2026 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/9NceYKlzvjc

Abstract:

This webinar highlights hospitality and customer service as keys to effective adult education. When educators create a warm, respectful, and supportive environment, learners feel valued, build trust, and stay motivated. By prioritizing these principles, programs can foster lasting growth and long-term success for every adult learner. Original webinar date: February 25, 2026 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/3lwIC2_GJtA

Abstract:

Limited access to equipment and ensuring apprentice safety remain two of the most persistent challenges facing vocational institutions, and the Heavy Equipment Operation course at Alfred State was no exception. While the program itself was thriving, instructors struggled to provide every student with sufficient hands-on time on live equipment. This webinar will examine Alfred State College’s decision-making process, implementation considerations, and resulting outcomes, providing a real-world example of how simulation can complement hands-on equipment training in vocational education. Join Jeffrey Stevens, dean of the School of Applied Technologies at Alfred State College, and Alan Limoges, manager of Product Growth at CM Labs, as they share how simulation-based training evolved from concept to impact, reducing training time by up to 30%, expanding institutional capacity, and giving students more opportunities to practice safely and effectively. Key takeaways: -Key considerations Alfred State College evaluated when integrating simulation into its curriculum -Why simulation has proven effective in improving safety, capacity, and training outcomes -How heavy equipment vocational programs can apply a similar approach to support student engagement and jobsite readiness Original webinar date: February 19, 2026 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/G2GKJidO72c Webinar resource link: https://hubs.la/Q041p3XW0

Abstract:

Many adult learners choose to pursue short-term occupational credentials in addition to (or following) their English language or high school equivalency. In this webinar, get an overview of National Skills Coalition's new research about how people decide which credentials to pursue, and whether these programs help them accomplish their career goals. You'll get valuable insight into factors that can help you strengthen Integrated Education and Training programs and advise learners. Original webinar date: February 17, 2026 Webinar recording link: https://youtu.be/EKzYHAerFUQ