ABE provided participants with basic education services. For participants who were reading below a ninth-grade level at program entry, the services focused on elevating their reading skills. If a participant was already at or achieved a ninth-grade reading level during the program, they attended adult secondary education classes focused on preparation for GED exams. Participants also took literacy and cognitive life skills classes. A participant could enroll in one or more ABE classes, which varied in duration.
ABE programs served people in prison who were male and possessed reading and math skills below a ninth-grade level. Individuals were required to complete 150 hours of ABE coursework. ABE was implemented in state prisons across Florida.