MIBEST
About
Hinds Community College’s MIBEST program is an innovative workforce training initiative designed to support individuals with foundational skill needs by delivering Integrated Education and Training (IET). The program combines adult education in math, reading, and writing with career and technical training, ensuring students build academic and occupational skills simultaneously in a structured, supportive learning environment.
In alignment with state and federal workforce priorities, the program provides a comprehensive career pathway for individuals who have not yet earned a high school diploma or high school equivalency (HSE). Through MIBEST, students who qualify are co-enrolled in adult education and college-level career technology programs, enabling them to:
- Earn their high school equivalency while actively progressing through industry-recognized credential programs tied to in-demand occupations
- Obtain one or more stackable, workforce-relevant certifications that lead to immediate employment opportunities with family-sustaining wages
- Accumulate college credit applicable toward a postsecondary degree, supporting long-term career advancement and lifelong learning
The program incorporates wraparound support services consistent with WIOA guidelines, including academic support, career advising, and transition services, to improve student retention, completion, and employment outcomes.
By aligning with Mississippi Community College Board priorities and WIOA policy, MIBEST advances workforce readiness, economic mobility, and employer engagement, ensuring participants are prepared to meet regional labor market demands.
Classes Begin Every 4 Weeks
DeSharra Stamps
DeSharra Stamps has always understood the big picture, but occasionally the fine details have tripped her up.
Octavius McCollum
Diagnosed with autism at age 2, Octavius lacked credits to earn his high school diploma, but has found a new home in culinary arts.
Andria Smith
She left her high school education undone and it turned into 10 years of struggling. With MIBEST, she knew wasn’t going at it alone.
Wyatt Stringer
Wyatt understands how the world works and wants to build it better through his newfound skills in woodworking. He understood it a little too well in high school, though, and boredom was intense enough to delay his diploma.
Mayra Gomez
Turning her love of numbers into a career in accounting despite coming to the United States from Mexico with her parents when she was already 20.
Classes Begin Every 8 Weeks
Your Personal Navigator
Guidance from Start to Finish
Your Navigator is your main point of contact, here to help you stay on track and succeed.
They help you:
- Enroll in MIBEST
- Apply for financial aid & scholarships (if eligible)
- Access workforce funding (ITA, Kellogg, MDHS, if eligible)
- Register in the courses with a trained counselor
- Plan your education and career goals
- Resume writing
- Job search activities
- IET Training
- Career exploration and advising
You are never on your own-Support starts day one.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
MIBEST is open to eligible Adult Education students who concurrently enroll in an Integrated Education Training program, and needs additional help with Math, Reading and/or writing. Initial program eligibility is determined by use of the TABE (Test of Adult Basic Education) scores, MCCB approved program of study and staff interviews and recommendation. TABE and staff interviews will be administered and conducted during the Adult Education registration session.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ENROLLMENT IN MIBEST?
- Individuals must be a legal Mississippi resident
- At least 17 years of age
- Score at least a bronze level on the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC).
- Preference will be given to students who do not have a high school diploma or its equivalency
WHAT PROGRAMS ARE OFFERED?
MIBEST students may enroll in programs of study approved by Hinds and the Mississippi Community College Board.
WHAT DOES THE PROGRAM COST?
Tuition for MIBEST is the same as for other courses at Hinds Community College. Financial aid and MIBEST scholarships are available for those who qualify. A MIBEST Navigator can help you determine program costs and assist you with applying to Hinds and scholarships.
Student First Approach
Our student-first approach give participants the skills they need to succeed in school and compete in the workforce by working on technical and basic skills education at the same time while also providing support services to students through a navigator and a job placement coordinator.