MCC featured in national toolkit supporting adult learners
Meridian Community College’s work to help adult learners access college and career training is featured in a new national resource for educators.
Rhonda Smith, college and career navigator in MCC’s Adult Education Department, shared
the college’s approach to Ability to Benefit for the Dual Enrollment for Adult Learners,
or DEAL Toolkit. Ability to Benefit allows eligible adults without a high school diploma
or its equivalent to qualify for federal student aid while enrolled in an eligible
career pathway program. 
The toolkit highlights MCC, describing how the college helps students prepare for the ACCUPLACER assessment used to determine their eligibility. That preparation includes a workforce readiness course called SMART Start, passing two subjects of a high school equivalency exam and earning a qualifying score on the ACT WorkKeys assessment.
These steps help prepare students to take college career and technical courses while working toward a high school equivalency credential through Mississippi Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training, known as MIBEST. The toolkit cites Smith’s interview as the source for MCC’s example.
Smith contributed after Nikitna Barnes, MIBEST administrator with the Mississippi Community College Board, connected her with the research team.
“Representing Meridian Community College in this publication is a true honor,” said Smith. “I am so excited that the work that we do for our adult learners at MCC is being recognized nationally.”
Dr. Lori Smith, associate vice president for workforce education and grants, echoed Smith’s comments. “MCC has a special team of champions in adult education, and we are incredibly proud of the impact the team has on the lives of so many in our community,” she added.
Released in September, the toolkit was developed by World Education and RTI International through a project funded by the U.S. Department of Education. It offers colleges and state agencies practical guidance for expanding access to education and training for adult learners. Topics include student support, financial aid requirements and partnerships among departments and agencies.
Visit meridiancc.edu/adulteducation for more information.