New Haven Adult Education

2026 Summer Registration opens on June 15, 2026. Register at nhaec.org/register.

New Haven Adult Education (NHAEC) hosted its 2026 Commencement Exercises on Wednesday, June 10, celebrating adult learners who have balanced jobs, families, and immense personal barriers to reclaim their educations and earn high school diplomas and career credentials.

151 Inspiring Graduates: Celebrating adult learners ranging in age and background earning their high school diplomas.
• Immediate Workforce Impact: Honoring 13 Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) graduates immediately entering the local healthcare pipeline after passing the rigorous Connecticut License Exam.
• Citizenship Milestone: Special recognition of a student who successfully achieved United States Citizenship during this academic year.
• Living History: Community celebration of the future Bassett Street campus honoring the civil rights legacy of Dr. Edwin Edmonds.

Quote from Principal Michelle Bonora:
"Today is more than a celebration of where our students have been—it is a powerful launch into where they are going. They came to us carrying the full weight of adult responsibilities. They showed up, they pushed through, and they refused to let life's demands stand in the way of their goals. New Haven is stronger because of their resilience."

At yesterday’s Global Jam, Mr. Diamantis took the stage to perform both Greek jazz and a traditional Greek dance. But before diving into the music, he captivated the audience with a quick look at the fascinating history behind the Greek jazz genre.

All evening classes are canceled due to today's extreme heat. (Wednesday, May 20, 2026)

On Wednesday evening, May 13, 2026, George Narvaez, who has taught English to speakers of other languages, presented a sample course titled “Yo soy yo y mis circumstancias” — drawing on the enduring philosophical insight of José Ortega y Gasset. He delivered the course entirely in Spanish to approximately 45 students. The response was remarkable. Students were visibly engaged, intellectually stimulated, and deeply connected to the material from the moment the session began.

This experience affirmed what we have long understood: when adult learners are met in their own language and invited into a conversation that honors their cultural identity, they do not simply participate — they come alive.

The program is a free college level program for adults who have faced economic and educational barriers. Through literature, philosophy, history, art, and writing, students explore stories and ideas that spark curiosity, open doors to learning, foster civic engagement, and encourage bold dreams.

Participants gain confidence, strengthen critical thinking, and can earn free college credit.

Thank you to Michael Twitty, Student Support Specialist at New Haven Adult Education, for organizing it.

https://www.clementecourse.org/

A huge thank you to Yale Repertory Theatre, Liz Nearing, and the talented cast of Furlough’s Paradise, Lauren F. Walker as Sade and Tiffany Mclarty as Mina for visiting our students on May 6, 2026! It was an incredible opportunity for our community to hear firsthand about the play's themes and the creative process. Your words on staying true to one's journey and chasing dreams left a lasting impact on our aspiring artists. We are so grateful for your time and inspiration!