Basic Education for Adults
Change how you see the worldIBEST – 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]