Adult Basic Education

Our Adult Basic Education (ABE) program prepares adults 18 and older to pass the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET/GED). The program offers four course levels, beginning with English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). Classes are held on weeknights, both in person and online. 

Passing the High School Equivalency Test or HiSET/GED allows you to:

• Enroll in college
• Apply for jobs or training that require a high school diploma
• Access more career and educational opportunities

In addition to academic instruction, we provide job readiness training, career support, and other helpful resources to set you up for success.

The Adult Basic Education program is offered through a partnership with North Shore Community College and Public Adult Education of MA/Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

COMPASS Youth Program

Our COMPASS Youth Program is a safe and flexible program designed to help out-of-school young adults ages 16 to 24 pass the HiSET/GED, or High School Equivalency Test.

The program tackles challenges and barriers that students may have experienced and supports them with one-on-one counseling, tutoring, college and job preparation, career counseling, and life skills coaching. We can also connect students to opportunities for paid internships, job shadowing, and employment. 

Benefits of enrolling in the Compass Youth Program include:

• FREE for eligible Cape Ann residents
• Safe and supportive learning environment
• Flexible class schedule
• HiSET preparation book and exam fees are covered
• Field trips to local colleges and businesses
• Transportation to North Shore Community College to take the HiSET exam

Financial Empowerment

Whether you’re struggling with poor credit, looking to create a budget that works for you, or figuring out how to save for the future, our Financial Empowerment program can help get you on the right track.  

Money Matters is a series of financial literacy workshops designed to help grow financial knowledge, reduce anxiety around money, and set goals for the future. All participants meet weekly with a financial coach to receive individual counseling based on their unique financial situation. 

Money Matters covers topics such as:

• Checking accounts & banking basics
• Creating a budget
• Loans & homeownership
• Understanding & improving your credit