Adult Basic Education
ABE classes build skills that can lead to a high school diploma by taking the GED exams. These improved skills can also lead to better employment and United States citizenship.
ABE Classes
ABE Eligibility
Individuals 16 years of age or older and who are not enrolled in high school may enroll in ABE classes. This includes both high school and non-high school graduates.
ABE Registration
All applicants must take a Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment System (CASAS) assessment, which is a tool that is used to help the adult literacy staff select a program of study that is best for each student.
General Education Development (GED)
Students are required to pass Official GED Practice Tests administered through a state-approved adult education program or GED Testing Center to assure GED test readiness. Persons may not retest unless they have successfully completed a course of study to improve their scores and taken the Official GED Practice Tests (OPTs) again.
For students who need to improve skills prior to taking the Official GED Practice Tests, the Adult Literacy division offers classes, based on individuals’ skill level, that help them attain the skills needed to achieve their goals. Students study one subject at a time under the supervision and assistance of an instructor. Individual and group activities enhance the learning. Assessments of progress are made until students are ready for referral for GED testing.
The five tests of GED are:
- Language Arts, Writing
- Language Arts, Reading
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
GED Eligibility
ABE students are eligible to begin study and practice for the GED exams upon attaining a specified score on the CASAS assessment.
High School Students
All GED-related testing — the GED and the CASAS assessment — requires a signed truancy disclaimer for 16- and 17-year old students. The GED continues to be an appropriate alternative for some individuals, but the organization and structure are becoming more focused on adult populations. The OPT is not intended to be a “come take the pre-test and see how you do” assessment. For this age group, Wichita Public Schools USD 259 offers many alternatives that merit careful consideration.
