News from Missouri AEL

The week of September 18, 2023 is National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week. A signed proclamation from the governor of Missouri is attached. Check the DESE website for social media posts. AEL programs are responsible for 1,244 high school equivalencies this year and 7,100 measurable skills gains (MSGs).

The US Education Department has added new assessments for AEL programs to use beginning July 1, 2024. Current tests include the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) forms 11/12 and TABE Comprehensive Language Assessment System for English (CLAS-E). New assessments approved by the National Reporting System include BEST, CASAS (Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems), and ACT WorkKeys. DESE will make its new assessment policy available once it is approved by the National Reporting System.

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) now offers two options to qualifying individuals to measure High School Equivalency skills. DESE previously offered the HiSET® test, which will continue to be available. Now, Missouri citizens may choose to use the GED® test instead. Both exams produce an accredited Missouri High School Equivalency Certificate for those who pass. The price for the computer-based GED® test ranges from $142 to $181.96. The price for the computer-based HiSET® test ranges from $98.75 to $151.25; the HiSET® cost will increase in January 2024, to $120 to $172.50. Citizens can find test requirements and a description of the differences between the two exams at hse.mo.gov. 

Provided by Adult Education and Literacy Ex-Officio Member - Alice Whalen