The NEA Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest. Each year, communities across the country offer conversations and events related to a single book. This year's selection is Lab Girl, by Hope Jahren. You can read more about the title and author by visiting the NEA website. 

During the month of October, you can participate in the Big Read by picking up a copy of Lab Girl at the Helena College Library. Helena College will be hosting include book discussions, a panel of women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) careers, and guest presenters. There are also activities for both adults and children at The Lewis and Clark Library and other organizations in our community. For a full list of events, check out the Lewis and Clark Library website and the Helena College Facebook page.

Beginning in July, ABE programs around the state have transitioned to version 11 and 12 of the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE). This updated assessment is 100% aligned with the College and Career Readiness Standards and the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET). All prospective students must complete a TABE every academic year to measure their proficiency in reading, language and math.

The most notable change is the length of the test. Test-takers can expect the test to take up to 5 hours. This is because the locator that determines which version of the test is most appropriate for each test-taker has been expanded to provide more accurate results. The reading sub-test has also been divided into two sections with a bigger emphasis on informational texts. Another difference is that the computation and applied math sub-tests have been combined. An onscreen calculator is still available for applied math problems. The language sub-test has also been simplified; there is no longer a separate spelling, vocabulary and language mechanics section. Finally, the test contains a variety of built-in accessibility and accommodation tools, including a line guide, highlighter, contrast options, and a digital notepad. 

For more information about TABE 11/12, visit the TABE website. To schedule a TABE, call the office at (406) 447-6387. The TABE is given on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9am.