#IamABE

Our Story

In December 2016, a group of mainly ESL teachers, already discouraged and frustrated by the recent election, gathered in the warmth of a living room to discuss what they were seeing in their classrooms. Student questions and concerns were shared as well as teachers' personal opinions and reactions. Conversation turned towards taking action. From the seeds of that night grew what eventually became the #IamABE project.

We realized that one of the main issues we were facing is that many community members outside our classrooms did not understand how legislation was affecting our students. We also didn't have outlets for our students to share their ideas, needs, and complex identities that weren't overshadowed by our own political leanings. So, we set out to create that space.


Purpose

  • Amplifying students’ voices about issues that affect them

  • Creating more awareness around who ABE serves and what it does

  • Educating students about ways they can communicate with the government


Statement on the Murder of George Floyd

Sign the statement here. forms.gle/pDjVCSn9vgtuuQZ6A

This statement has gotten a great deal of attention and support, even beyond the borders of our state. While the language reflects our geography, IamABE invites ABE organizations and professionals outside the state of MN to sign this statement in solidarity, and to actively reflect on opportunities for the most relevant applications of similar commitments in their own areas of practice.

After you sign on, print one of these posters to keep in your office as a reminder of the work we've committed to together.

Featured:

IamABE's rubric for assessing group participation and critical thinking appear in Betsy Parrish's new book, Teaching Adult English Language Learners: A Practical Introduction in the chapter entitled "Assessing Learning and Teaching."

PONI Award

#IamABE was awarded the PONI award at the Literacy Action Network Awards Banquet during ABE Summer institute on August 15, 2019. The PONI award is given to outstanding projects that meet a unique need or demonstrate innovation in the field of ABE. #IamABE was recognized for its commitment to student and teacher advocacy.