A Holistic Approach to Adult Learning and Community Success

Cass Lake-Bena-Walker Adult Basic Education (ABE) continues to provide opportunities for students to grow, develop new skills, and build stronger connections within their community. Since 2015, the program’s dedicated ABE Coordinator, Laura Malott, has successfully managed multiple roles, including Coordinator, Data and Intake Specialist, Technology/Distance Learning Coordinator, ABE/GED/ADP Instructor, and Testing Coordinator, ensuring students continue to receive high-quality services and support.

Located at Leech Lake Tribal College, the primary ABE site offers an appropriate adult educational atmosphere and opportunities for learners to explore post-secondary education pathways. Cass Lake-Bena-Walker ABE approaches education holistically and with the broad future in mind. Students are supported from basic skills through college-level preparation, with ongoing academic, career, and skills assessments that help align personal goals, housing and transportation needs, lifestyle choices, and career pathways.

The consortium has long been committed to providing fair and equitable access to adult education. Instruction is designed to meet the unique needs of learners, and every effort is made to contextualize learning according to student interests and goals. All learners are assessed using federally approved assessment tools and placed into appropriately leveled instruction.

Enrolled Native Americans from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota tribes make up 87% of the student population. Many are lifelong community members whose roots, families, and futures remain in the area. Through guidance, encouragement, self-esteem building, and instruction, learners grow into self-determining, engaged community members. The program continues to celebrate student achievement, educational milestones, career advancement, and the positive impact adult education has on strengthening the Cass Lake-Bena-Walker community.