Metro North ABE successfully delivers basic skills training for adults who want to acquire or improve their math, reading, grammar or writing skills; or for those who want to prepare for getting a job, a promotion, or entering post-secondary education. 

Licensed, professional teachers are trained to work with adult learners to build on their existing skills and achieve their own personal goals.  Metro North ABE teachers actively participate in professional development so they are equipped to deliver high quality and relevant instruction to the adult learners. All materials used in classes are geared for adult learners.

Metro North ABE works in partnership with local CareerForce centers, colleges and businesses to ensure instructional content is aligned with real-life academic needs and relevant employment skills. This partnership also participates in grant projects that offer specific training for in-demand jobs. The adult basic education program also conducts ongoing evaluation of instruction to ensure consistent, quality programming or training.

Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) has helped hundreds of adults finish their high school diploma. Currently, Metro North ABE offers adult diploma programs at two locations:

• Blaine Learning Lab: Minnesota State Adult Diploma (Credit Recover)
  
• Elk River Adult Education Center: Minnesota State Adult Diploma; Elk River Diploma (credit recovery)

Some school districts will offer a local diploma once the student earns a Minnesota State Adult Diploma.

If you are thinking about finishing your diploma as an adult, our staff encourage students to consider:

• How many credits you have to complete.
• If you have time to attend classes regularly.
• If you have time to study and complete course work at home
• How soon you would like to complete a diploma program.
• If a GED diploma would be faster to earn to enter post-secondary training more quickly.

Students must be at least 18 years of age, and their class must have already graduated in order to be eligible for ABE diploma programs.

Once you enroll, an adult basic education teacher will meet with you to discuss graduation options based on your unique situation. An advisor will work with you during the entire process to support you on your path to graduation and beyond.

Adult diploma students enrolled in the Metro North ABE program can expect:

• High school transcripts will be analyzed to determine what credits are needed.
• To set short- and long-term goals toward completing your diploma.
• To attend classes regularly.
• To create a professional resume, online portfolio, and complete a digital literacy certification.
• An invitation to participate in an annual graduation commencement ceremony hosted by Metro North ABE.
  
  
  

English language classes are offered to support adults who may be immigrants or refugees. The curriculum is designed to fulfill learner's practical needs by teaching everyday language focused on survival skills and everyday living. In addition, the classes improve proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing English.

Transition classes
Non-native English speakers who are advanced English language learners may enroll in transitional classes as they prepare to enter the adult basic education program to work on earning a GED or high school diploma. The curriculum focuses on reading and study skills to help learners become self-directed learners and gain additional practice in listening, speaking and writing.

Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) offers free U.S. citizenship classes several times each year for learners who want to prepare to take the citizenship test. Online study opportunities are also available for students who prefer to study online. The program is free of charge to current Metro North ABE students.

• Get information about becoming a U.S. citizen
• Learn U.S. History and Government
• Tips on filling out the application
• How to connect with local immigration legal services
• Practice for the citizenship interview
  
  
  

General Education Development (GED) exam
Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) can help adults preparing for the General Education Development (GED) exam. The GED exam is for adults ages 19 or older who want to earn an alternative high school credential. Adults ages 17 and 18 must obtain an age waiver from the state of Minnesota. Metro North staff will help with obtaining an age waiver.

GED prep class
Instruction focuses on four GED tests which cover Mathematical Reasoning, Reasoning Through Language Arts, Social Studies and Science. Classes also work on developing critical thinking skills, and improving writing and computer skills.

Daytime, evening and online GED classes are offered at several locations.

Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE) can work with local businesses to provide on-site adult instruction in basic skills or English language; customized to meet the needs of the employer. Our connections with local Workforce Centers and the Minnesota Department of Education help strengthen our community by equipping adults with skills they need to join the workforce and attain a job in an area benefiting our local economy.

Members
The following community education programs are consortium members of Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE). These community education departments provide classes and support through Metro North ABE:

• Anoka-Hennepin Schools
• Brooklyn Center Schools
• Centennial School District
• Columbia Heights Public Schools
• Elk River Area School District
• Fridley Public Schools
• Spring Lake Park Schools
• St. Francis School District 

Partners
Each year, the consortium serves over 4,000 adults in the northern Twin Cities metro area. Community partners come together to support students in reaching their goals:

• Anoka-Ramsey Community College
• Anoka Technical College
• County Workforce Centers
• Anoka County Corrections
• Anoka County Sheriff's Department
• Literacy Minnesota
• Early Childhood Family Education
• Minnesota Department of Education
• Anoka County Library
  
  
  
  

Metro North ABE offers learning opportunities at various locations in the north metro to best serve our students:

• Anoka-Ramsey Community College
• Anoka Technical College
• Blaine Learning Lab
• Brooklyn Center Adult Education Center
• Centennial Adult Continuing Education
• Columbia Heights/Fridley Adult Education Center
• Elk River Community Education Center
• St. Francis

Volunteers play a vital role at Metro North Adult Basic Education (ABE). Volunteers do more than assisting teachers in the classroom. Our volunteers encourage, inspire and mentor learners by encouraging them to achieve their fullest potential.

Volunteers are needed to serve as:

• Classroom aides 
• Computer lab assistants
• English learning aides
• Office support
• Instructors and co-instructors
• Intake and assessment aides
• Special projects assistants

Volunteers help by assisting teachers in the classroom, providing learners with additional support and working with staff to complete essential projects. Volunteer Services staff and teachers provide orientation and training as well as ongoing support.

Volunteer support is always needed and welcomed. It's easy to get involved.

Learn more about current volunteer needs at Metro North ABE, and get started.

Contact
Matt Miller, Volunteer Coordinator
matthew.miller@ahschools.us 
Phone: 763-433-4221
Fax: 763-433-4203