We lead
by example, empowering our learners with the skills and confidence they need to seize opportunities. We equip them not just for today, but for the future they envision.
Lead Equip Empower
We equip
our educators with the tools and resources necessary to inspire transformation in every classroom, fueling a passion for lifelong learning.
We empower
our administrators with the vision and strategies to innovate and implement change, building stronger, more adaptive institutions.
Lead | Equip | Empower
News & Current Initiatives
COABE Enters Into New Partnership with eCornell
COABE is partnering with eCornell University for our adult learners to earn online certificates at no cost!
COABE is Partnering with IBM SkillsBuild
Discover the value of IBM SkillsBuild—a powerful platform offering free industry-recognized learning badges, career-focused training pathways, and resources for both educators and learners
Mark Your Calendars for COABE 2026!
JOIN THE WORLD'S LARGEST ADULT EDUCATION CONFERENCE FEATURING: More than 15 strands; Nearly 500 state of the art, national level, sessions; Expert presenters; Niche vendors and large publishers; Awards, recognition, and funding; Networking with colleagues from across the country.
The Faces of Adult Education
A critical moment is upon us: The newly released President's FY26 "Skinny Budget"
proposal calls for deep cuts to non-defense discretionary spending—including the complete elimination of federal funding for adult education. Though this proposal is unlikely to pass the Senate as written, it sends a clear signal: the future of adult education is at risk, and now is the time to raise our voices.
More than 75% of COABE’s local programs depend on federal funding to help adults improve literacy, earn credentials, and transform their lives. These aren’t just programs—they are lifelines for millions of learners working tirelessly to support their families, strengthen their communities, and create a better tomorrow.
This is our call to action. Together, we can make a difference.
Alabama
Ashley Johnson
Once Ashley Johnson tasted success in adult education, she knew she could not stop at her high school diploma. Today, Ashley is not only chasing her dreams, she is reaching back to pull others along with her.
Connecticut
Eddie Rivera
After a turbulent teenhood, Eddie Rivera found himself incarcerated, but not forgotten. Adult education breathed life into the dreams he had always had, and upon reentry, Eddie began to chase his second chance with everything he had.
Delaware
Kristy Trudel
Thanks to her adult education program promoting digital literacy skills, Kristy Trudel went off to college and became equipped to give back to the adult education community using her new in-demand computer security skills.
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COABE’s mission is to lead, equip, and empower the field of adult education, inspiring transformative growth in every adult to achieve their full potential. We exist to provide leadership, communication, professional development, and advocacy for adult education and literacy practitioners to advance quality services for all adult learners. COABE represents the field of 82,000 adult educators and provides a variety of services, including professional development through annual, state-of-the-art national conferences, more than 40 webinars annually, and a peer reviewed journal. [ SUBSCRIBE HERE ]