MN ABE Connect Archive
Recent Newsletter Articles
2026 Language & Literacy Institute: Registration Now Open!
Join us for the 2026 Language & Literacy (virtual) Institute on January 29-30, 2026! This two-day conference offers language and literacy-related workshops that you will NOT want to miss, including featured presentations by Jayme Adelson-Goldsten, Betsy Parrish, and Michelle Benegas. If you teach any aspect of language and literacy—at any level—this event is for you! Read More
Your Program’s Turn to Try Remote Assessment
Are you interested in testing your students remotely? Read further to learn about an opportunity to participate in a pilot program that will allow eligible students from your program to complete their CASAS testing remotely, free of charge! Read More
St. Paul Nonprofit Offering “Know Your Rights” Workshops for Immigrants
Since 2019, the International Institute’s Community Workshops (CW) program has been providing classes about life in Minnesota. Now, they are helping immigrants be prepared for encounters with law enforcement. Read More
The Human Library Experience at LESLLA 2025: Centering Learner Voices Through Identity Texts
At the 2025 LESLLA Conference in Québec City, attendees took part in a Living Human Library, where LESLLA learners from Québec shared identity texts created with support from their teacher and a Université Laval research team. Learners presented personal stories highlighting their languages, backgrounds, and lived experiences. The space became a lively hub of dialogue, curiosity, and cultural exchange. Read More
Ellii + Ventures
Are you an English teacher in the ABE world that uses Ventures? Did you know that Ellii has an entire feature that has aligned many of the activities and resources with the different Ventures levels? Curious about how it works either way? Hear from other ABE English teachers who have been using it and get other general Ellii tips and tricks right here! Read More
Creating Calm: Reducing Stress and Anxiety in the Classroom
During these uncertain times, especially around the holidays, teachers and students may experience increased stress and anxiety. When these feelings grow overwhelming, they can disrupt learning, focus, and overall well-being. By recognizing anxiety and using simple strategies, teachers can create calm, supportive classrooms where students learn more effectively and educators feel more confident. Read More
Good Sub Plans: The Key to Efficacy and Continuity in Your Absence
Every teacher needs a substitute at some point. But how to best serve our students in our absence? A good sub plan creates a framework that anyone can implement, no matter their teaching background or area of expertise. Routinely implementing some of the following suggestions into your sub plans can improve efficacy and continuity for you and your students. Read More
Reading Skills Stories: Resources for Beginning ESL Literacy
Teachers across Minnesota have been asking for more accessible, adult-appropriate phonics materials—and "Phonics Stories" deliver. Keep reading to learn why we’re excited to highlight this resource! Read More
Adults With Disabilities Funding Used to Support Osseo Area Schools ABE
Osseo Area Schools Community Education has decided to use Adults With Disabilities funding for its Adult Basic Education program. What does this mean?!? So many things! Read More
Using Google Slides to Make Flashcards
Looking for inspiration on incorporating meaningful digital literacy opportunities into your class? Look no further! This is a follow-up to the "Differentiated Digital Literacy Instruction" webinar at the Digital Learning Institute. Read More