UNH Today

Classes for Manchester School District’s Adult Basic Education (ABE) program are in full swing at UNH Manchester, which welcomes approximately 90 ABE students to its campus this fall.

As part of a recent partnership with Manchester School District, UNH Manchester will host the ABE morning cohort for the 2015-2016 academic year. Ranging in age from 25 to 65, many ABE students seek to learn or improve English language skills to better their livelihoods in the region, with some pursuing their GEDs.

UNH Manchester Dean J. Michael Hickey said this partnership represents the city’s commitment to education, and a celebration of its diversity.

“UNH Manchester will not just host this cohort, but will also leverage the presence of ABE on campus as a learning opportunity for our students and as an engagement opportunity for our entire community,” Hickey said.

The collaboration spurred from the school district’s desire to provide ABE courses in one physical location, rather than depending on classroom availability across the city. UNH Manchester’s newly renovated campus and mission as a community partner made the college a fitting host for the program.

Barbara Gardner, director of Adult and Community Education at Manchester School District, said the downtown location aligns with her department’s focus to expand community-based learning.

“ABE and English as a Second Language are really great programs, and now more people are going to be able to attend because the location is where it needs to be,” Gardner said.

Manchester Mayor Ted Gatsas said the partnership demonstrates the power of public institutions working together for the greater good.

“Congratulations to both the Manchester School District and UNH Manchester for partnering in such an important endeavor,” Gatsas said. “This partnership not only represents good will, but good work on behalf of those with a desire to learn.”

ABE classes began at UNH Manchester on September 21 and run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.