1.2.5.1 Adult Education Navigators

All W-2 agencies should have a staff member who performs the role of an Adult Education Navigator.

The role of the Adult Education Navigator is to support W-2 Adults in their participation in educational programs and activities.

The Adult Education Navigator will perform these primary functions:

Assess W-2 Adults and place them on a fitting education track.

Help W-2 Adults navigate enrollment processes, which can include, but is not limited to: Registration; Orientation sessions; Providing enrollment documentation like transcripts and TABE scores; and Overcoming pre-enrollment barriers.

Coordinate and collaborate with available local resources and programs.

Help W-2 Adults access Supportive Services, which can include, but is not limited to: Basic school supplies (e.g., notebooks, folders, pencils); Technology (e.g., laptop or tablet); Mobile internet or a hotspot; Transportation assistance; Clothing; Home school materials (e.g., desk, lamp, chair, headphones); Educational extra-curricular activities (e.g., forensics, financial literacy, field trips); Graduation expenses (e.g., cap and gown); and Other educational expenses approved by the state.

Establish and maintain outreach methods to W-2 Adults enrolled in educational programs to monitor progress, address barriers, and sustain motivation.

Distribute education attainment incentives (e.g., gift cards).

Act as a resource and liaison for adult education opportunities and needs of the participant. This can include, but is not limited to: Assistance enrolling into a technical college; Finding and applying for grants and scholarships; and Navigating the education system.