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Vernon Regional Adult Basic Education (VRABE) has been a part of the New England ABE-T0-College Transition Project since September, 2001. Funding from NMEF since 2001 has enabled VRABE to expand its program and increase delivery of services to additional towns. After a very successful program start, VRABE initiated an evening program at Maple Street School, Rockville in Spring 2003, for a total program enrollment of 40 students. September 2004 marks tremendous expansion of the transition program with the delivery of seven 12-week sessions offering day and evening classes and held in a two suburban and three rural locations. Recognizing that some potential students were faced with the prospect of traveling in excess of 25 miles to attend a Transition class, an additional rural site was located in Colchester, Connecticut to attract interested individuals living in remote areas. Responding to student requests, Saturday classes are also projected for the Spring, 2005 cycle. The program provides academic work in reading, writing, math, study skills, computer training, and career counseling. Anticipated enrollment for this year is 60 students, representing an increase of 20 students over Spring, 2003 enrollment. Follow-up is conducted with students who have completed the program and entered college. The students in the Transition class reflect the ABE community of the VRABE region. The student population consists of immigrants from a variety of countries, single parents who left school to support their families, and individuals who have been out of the school environment for many years. Many students are juggling family, work, and attendance at transition classes. Criteria for enrollment include students who hold a GED or high school diploma and who have been out of school for a minimum of 5 years and students who are currently enrolled in GED or Credit Diploma Classes. The College Transition program is partnered with Manchester Community College, particularly its Adult in Transitions (AIT) program. With the assistance of counselors at Manchester Community College, and attendance at a variety of workshops, students learn about the culture and expectations of college, complete an MCC application and financial aid forms, and receive career development guidance and advising. The College Transition's day program enjoys a successful partnership with Manchester Head Start. This partnership provides free daycare for parents during instruction time. Vernon Regional Adult Basic Education (VRABE) services eighteen towns in Tolland County. The towns include Andover, Ashford, Bolton, Colchester, Coventry, Ellington, Glastonbury, Hebron, Lebanon, Manchester, Mansfield, Marlborough, South Windsor, Stafford, Tolland, Union, Vernon, and Willington. Vernon Regional Adult Basic Education's mission is to offer dynamic, multicultural services in an atmosphere of respect, appreciation, and acceptance of all. It is the goal of the region to empower students with the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed both personally and professionally in a technologically advanced society. Collaborating College: Manchester Community College
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