When adults learn, the entire community benefits through stronger families, a more competitive workforce, and a richer civic life.
Understanding the 2025 Adult Basic Education Funding Changes
Like many government-funded programs, adult education faced significant uncertainty and change in 2025. While federal funding continues to evolve, we are fortunate to live in Minnesota, a state that values lifelong learning. However, it is essential for our community to understand the important changes in how Adult Basic Education( ABE) is funded and how these proposed changes will affect adults seeking to improve their English skills, increase their basic academic skills, or earn a high school diploma.
Currently, federal funding accounts for about 10 % of our local ABE budgets. Although this percentage may seem small, it plays a critical role in ensuring that our programs run smoothly. This federal support helps cover the costs of teachers, instructional materials, and essential student services. It also funds vital statewide infrastructure that we rely on every day.
For example, federal dollars support Minnesota Department of Education staff who provide oversight, training, and technical assistance to local ABE programs. They also finance the database that tracks student enrollment, progress, and outcomes— tools that help us measure success and meet state and federal reporting requirements. Additionally, civic education grants funded through federal appropriations allow us to offer classes in citizenship, government, and community engagement— programs that strengthen both individuals and our democracy. This funding enabled us to offer the successful“ ESL to CNA” class, which supports healthcare professionals in entering the field while improving their English proficiency.
We know individuals who improve their education can expect higher lifetime earnings. Research on the return on investment( ROI) for adult education programs that serve adults building foundational skills, earning their high school equivalency, improving English language proficiency, or preparing for college and career training shows that these efforts pay off significantly; participants with more than 100 hours of instruction average $ 10,000 more in annual income 1. Even before obtaining a degree, increased skills open doors to higher-paying jobs, professional certifications, and career advancement.
These benefits extend to the broader community as well. Employers gain a more skilled and adaptable workforce. Job seekers reduce their risk of unemployment by staying current with industry trends. Networking in educational settings fosters mentorships and collaborations that strengthen local industries.
The personal growth fostered by ABE is equally important. Adult learners often report increased confidence, improved problemsolving and critical thinking skills, and greater adaptability to change— qualities that serve them well both at work and in civic life. Classes in citizenship and civic engagement help community members become active participants in local government, schools, and volunteer organizations.
While the federal funding for 2025 has been released, this period of uncertainty showed us what is at stake. If this funding were reduced or eliminated, the impact would be immediate. We would have to reallocate funds from our existing classes to cover these infrastructure costs. Consequently, this would result in fewer class offerings, longer waiting lists, and reduced services for learners trying to improve their literacy, earn a diploma, or prepare for the workforce.
When adults learn, the entire community benefits through stronger families, a more competitive workforce, and a richer civic life.
1) National Coalition for Literacy Return on Investment
2