Adult educators recognized as key contributors to North Dakota workforce development

State officials in North Dakota are emphasizing the importance of adult education programs as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s workforce. State School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler recognized the contributions of adult educators, stating they are essential for North Dakotans working to earn general equivalency high school diplomas.

Gov. Kelly Armstrong has designated September 15-19 as Adult Education and Family Literacy Week. During this time, the North Dakota Association for Lifelong Learning is holding its annual conference in Bismarck, bringing together members from adult learning centers across the state.

Adult education programs offer instruction for individuals who have not completed high school, enabling them to obtain a GED credential that is accepted by colleges and employers nationwide. These centers provide classes in reading, writing, science, social studies, and math, along with GED test preparation and testing services. They also offer English language instruction for those who are not native speakers or who struggle with English.

There are 12 adult learning centers located throughout North Dakota in cities including Belcourt, Bismarck, Devils Lake, Dickinson, Fargo, Grand Forks, Jamestown, Minot, Valley City, Wahpeton, Watford City, and Williston. The instruction is provided at no cost to participants. Additionally, those taking the GED exams may have their exam fees covered; each of the four required tests costs $36. Adult education services are also available within North Dakota’s correctional system where residents without a high school diploma must work toward earning a GED during incarceration.

Sara Mitzel, state director of adult education for the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction, reported that 3,590 students were served by these centers during the last budget year ending June 30. She noted that obtaining a GED can increase an individual’s annual wages by $9,000 to $10,000 on average.

The pass rate among GED test takers in North Dakota was 84 percent last year. According to Mitzel: “Our adult education system helps North Dakotans get family-sustaining jobs,” she said. “We help to advance our learners and get them into the workforce.”

The annual conference hosted by the North Dakota Association for Lifelong Learning focuses on professional development for leaders and staff at adult learning centers. Topics include integrating artificial intelligence into adult education and providing support for struggling learners.