Pete Domenici Visit's Roswell Zoo to Dedicate Poe Corn Character Counts Plaque

Senator Pete Domenici dedicated a plaque to Poe Corn at the Roswell Zoo today. Domenici applauded the hard work of Poe Corn on Character Counts in Chaves County. In today's world, Domenici stressed, the teaching of the character pillars of responsibility, citizenship, and truthfullness are vitally important. The Senator reminded everyone that we must encourage young peole to take advantage of every learning opportunity possible. Reflecting on the globalization of labor and trade, Pete emphasized that unless we maintain an educated and moral population with solid character traits our position in the world will decline.

Career Fair

Yesterday, the ENMU-R ABE program participated in the Youth Career Fair held at the Roswell Civic Center. ABE staff member Susan Isaacs (pictured on top) graciously managed the booth and fielded questions from young job seekers. Smiling broadly, MISTIC employee Jasmine Whalen (pictured below) worked to recruit employees for her employer. Ms. Whalen graduated from the Roswell Job Corps Center in 2006 and is now a full time employee with MISTIC. Jasmine earned her GED at Job Corps and was a completer of the Protective Service Program. Ms. Whalen plans to attend college next semester and pursue an advanced degree. She understands that without completing more education she is unlikely to advance in whatever field she pursues.

New Mexico Youth ChalleNGe Academy Cadets take Pre-GED Tests

Approximately eighty-two New Mexico Youth Challenge Academy (NMYCA) cadets took the official practice GED test today. Administered by ABE Coordinator, Mary Salyards, the official practice test will help the cadets know their chances of passing the GED they are scheduled to take in mid-December. The GED passing percentage for the NMYCA is usually above fifty percent. This figure is substantially higher than most similar programs tht work with at-risk youth. It is especially impressive since the academic portion of the program is only sixteen weeks. Every cadet, almost with exception, cycle after cycle, improves their math, reading and writing skills. Good Job Cadets, instructors, and everyone else connected with NMYCA!

Data Tech and Director's Training at UNM Valencia

Tyler Weldon (at left) explains new ABE data audit procedures to directors and data techs. During this training Tyler explained some helpful searches and useful queries using LACES. Data Techs and Directors had an opportunity last Friday to ask questions about student rollover issues, performance checks, and the new desktop auditing process. Approximately forty ABE personnel attended the four-hour training.

Pam's Class Learns a little about Integers

ABE Instructor Pam Wolfert guides her students through some exercises on integers. Roughly 80% of the students who enter ABE GED classes need assistance in Math. Most students need refreshing on fractions, decimals, or geometry before attempting the GED Math test. All too frequently people feel math is their Achille's heel. With a little work and review, most people find they can improve their math abilities very rapidly.

A Spooky Halloween at ENMU-R ABE

Mild-mannered ABE work-study student Miguel turns in super crime fighter Batman every Halloween. When little ghouls and goblins drop by ABE each year to pick up candy and treats, we all feel safe knowing Batman is here to protect us. This year ENMU-R put on a Fall Carnival that featured a petting zoo, duck pond, gourd bowling, ring toss, potato sack race, and a cake walk. The popular and talented band Mickey and the Motorcars entertained everyone with a concert in the PAC from 7pm until 9pm that evening. Batman kept everyone safe the entire evening.