The State Board for Community and Technical Colleges and the college system developed I-BEST to better support adult basic education students advance to certificate and degree completion. Because a portion of credits earned must be college-level, I-BEST paves the way for students to continue their training or to return for more education.

Talent and skills determine the competitive edge in today’s global market. Most new jobs, and the majority paying a family wage, require some education beyond high school. I-BEST pairs workforce training and ABE or ESL so students learn literacy and workplace skills at the same time. Adult literacy and vocational instructors work together to develop and deliver instruction. Colleges provide higher levels of support and student services to address the needs of non-traditional students.