Karen Gerdin

Tell us about your background.

I have a master's degree in Human Resource Development with a certificate in Adult Educations from the University of Minnesota. I am an Assistant Supervisor for Saint Paul Public Schools Adult Basic Education at the Hubbs Center. I have been in ABE for 25 years. 

Share about some of the programs and services offered through Saint Paul Public Schools' Adult Basic Education (SPPS ABE).

SPPS ABE provides education services to nearly 4,000 adult students annually. The majority of SPPS ABE students are immigrant/refugee with English language proficiency and basic education needs. In addition, we provide GED preparation and testing, College Readiness and Job Training programing to adult learners. 

How is ABE preparing individuals for careers in in-demand occupations? 

SPPS ABE - Hubbs Center prepares students for employment when they enroll in our classes. Every class has an employability component which provides the students with the skills needed to move forward. Our adult career pathway classes are academically based with skills training. We offer classes for small business ownership, paraprofessional training, nursing assistant training, medical office, building maintenance and many more.  In addition, we provide English Language classes onsite at local businesses. These classes are customized for the company and the learner to improve their basic skills and English proficiency. 

How have you adapted your programming in response to the challenges of the pandemic?

The pandemic has helped move our program to the next level. We now offer more online classes. All our career pathway classes are online with some in-person skills training. We have introduced students to new technology and have prepared them for Google Meet classes and learning platforms, which they can access from their phones, tablet, or laptop.