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Basic Education for Adults

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IBEST – Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training

Washington’s Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training Program (I-BEST) quickly teaches students literacy, work, and college-readiness skills so they can move through school and into living wage jobs faster.

Pioneered by Washington’s community and technical colleges, I-BEST uses a team-teaching approach. Students work with two teachers in the classroom: one provides job-training and the other teaches basic skills in reading, math or English language. Students get the help they need while studying in the career field of their choice; they learn by doing.

The I-BEST model is also used in academic transfer classes so students can brush up their skills as they learn college-level content toward a degree.

I-BEST challenges the traditional notion that students must move through a set sequence of basic education or pre-college (remedial) courses before they can start working on certificates or degrees. The combined teaching method allows students to work on college-level studies right away, clearing multiple levels with one leap.

Who is eligible?

  • Adults who are at least 16 years old.
  • Students under 19 must be formally released from high school before enrolling.

I-BEST equips students with the needed skills to move ahead in college and land high-demand, living wage jobs that help grow our economy.

The Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges requires I-BEST programs to lead to jobs with a minimum starting wage of $13 per hour ($15 per hour in King County). Overall, I-BEST students who complete certificates and degrees earn more than these benchmarks. Students enroll in a wide range of high-demand I-BEST pathways, including healthcare, aeronautics, advanced manufacturing, and IT.

Course Options

We have Academic IBEST courses:

  • English
  • Math
  • Chemistry

Professional Technical IBEST courses:

  • Welding
  • Allied Health
  • Human Services
  • Early Childhood Education

Contact Information

Stephanie Hunter, Full Time Temp Faculty and IBEST coordinator
[email protected]