North Texas Adult Education & Literacy
Empowering Lifelong Learners
- Adult Education & Literacy
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I just go to classes whenever I want?
No, as part of our program you are required to gain your first 12 hours with in the first month. If you have more than 3 unexcused absence we will have to drop you from the class. As long as you are communicating to your instructor on which days you won’t be in class you will still be on the roster.
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Can I test and take classes remotely on a mobile device?
No, if you only have a mobile device we highly recommend that you take the test in person and attend classes face-to-face until you have a laptop or computer.
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Do I have to take a test to start class?
Yes, but don’t worry this test is a baseline test for your instructor as well as for the program. The test is not a pass or fail test but is more of a guide so we know what level of proficiency you are at when entering our program.
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Do you administer the High School Equivalency tests?
No, we do not. We are only a preparation school that helps you improve your skills so that way you can pass the test. Which means it is up to you to want to improve and work with your instructor(s) to ensure your success!
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Do you offer classes online?
Yes we offer classes online. We use Canvas as our learning management software and Microsoft Teams as our conference tool.
To be successful in online classes with us we recommend good WiFi and a working laptop / computer.
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How can I contact NTAEL?
-Call Cleburne: 817-526-5174 or Denton: 940-369-0400
-Email us at: aelcontact@dentonisd.org
-Text us at (940) 252-4682
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How can I start classes with North Texas Adult Education & Literacy?
You may schedule an appointment to register here: bit.ly/bookntael
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How much do services cost?
-The classes are free/ no cost to you.
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What am I being tested on in the test?
There are two different assessments for our program, the ESL Best assessment or the HSE TABE tests. If you are taking ESL classes, then you are required to take up to a 1 hour reading and writing test as well as an oral test which consist of having a conversation with the proctor. These tests are not a pass or fail test.
If you are taking HSE classes you are required to take the state standard assessment TABE. Within TABE you will be taking an auto locator, reading, language and math subject tests. Keep in mind that the average time spent on this test is about 2 ½ - 3 hours. If you get an Out of Range in a test section that means you will have to retake that portion at a lower level. This means that you either did good on the auto locator and it placed you in a test level that was too hard for you, or you did not take the test seriously. That is why it is always important to take your time and take the test seriously so we can get you into classes ASAP.
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What can I expect in the classroom?
It may be a little overwhelming at first adjusting to class and we understand that you may have been out of class for years or may have low expectations. We want you to be successful so that is why we provide in person and online instruction that consist of structured lesson plans provided by the instructor. The instructor understands that he/she’s students have different focus areas and will adjust lessons according to student needs.
Each student enters the class at any given moment and the duration of the class vary depending on the type of class. Each class is either 2 days a week or 4 days a week. We also offer a curriculum for students to use at home called Essential Education or Burlington English. This provides an additional level of support you can use at home so you can get to your end goal faster. Understand that these classes are at a go at your own pace format and requires the efforts of the student and instructor(s) working together to push forward.
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What if I don't live in the area you serve? I live in Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, etc...
-We might not be able to serve you, however similar programs are offered across the state of Texas. To find a program near you, go to: tinyurl.com/txael
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What is HSE and what is ESL?
HSE stands for High School Equivalency which is the standard name for preparing eligible candidates to pass the high school equivalency exams instead of a high school diploma.
ESL stands for English as a Second Language and are classes to teach you how to learn English so you can become more self-sufficient.
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When can I start classes?
Classes run all year and you go at your own pace with students entering class throughout the year. You can start classes as fast as 1-2 week after you have gone through the intake and orientation process. You must be registered, tested and attend orientation before going to classes.
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Where are the classes you offer?
-We have online and in-person classes. We have classes in different locations around Denton County and Cleburne, TX. We have some classes in libraries, schools, and recreation centers. Classes are twice a week for 2 hours. We have morning and evening sessions. Class placement will depend on availability and test scores.
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What to Expect for:
Intake
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During intake you will be required to fill out paper work that is needed for the program. This is usually the first item in our registration process. Please ensure that you have your state issued ID or drivers license and your social security card for verification if you have one. You can also bring any of these forms of IDs if you do not have a state issued ID, click here. We do not deny students if you do not have the required IDs. You will be bring or fill out the following:
- Enrollment Form
- Parent / Guardian Form (ages 16-18)
- School withdrawal Form (ages 16-18
- Court Order Form (ages 16)
- Verify TANF Eligibility
- Screening Tool (ESL students only)
- Self Attestation (if applicable)
After intake you will either start testing same day as intake or testing will follow the next day or scheduled based on availability.
Testing
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Testing is usually done the next day or by the intake specialist’s schedule. Please come ready to take the tests seriously so we can get the most accurate results when placing you in class. These tests are not pass or fail but merely a guide for the program and instructors on how proficient you are at the subject.
If you are an ESL student you will be doing two types of tests:
- BEST Oral Test - This consists of having a conversation with the proctor. Based on the conversation the program will run algorithms to determine English language proficiency.
- BEST LIT Test - This test is a timed test and you are only allotted 1 hour. In this test you will be asked questions based on American life and is the reading and writing portion of the test which will determine your English reading and writing level.
If you are an HSE student you will be taking the TABE test. The TABE test is one of the state standard assessments which tests you on Math, Reading, and Language. For each section you will also be taking an auto locator test which determines what level of test you will take. Please keep in mind that if you get an O/R on a test you will be required to retake that section over at a lower level.
Orientation
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Orientation takes place after you have successfully finished both intake and testing. During orientation, you will be given the ins and outs of the program as well as other information that will help you to be successful in our program. You will also be expected to go over goals, expectations, and other required information. We will also go over our curriculum which is Burlington English for ESL and Essential Education for HSE. In addition, you will be explained what progress testing is as well as what are our expectations are for testing. This process is usually done in 3 days and you can start classes the following week.
