ACCS recognizes national Adult Education and Family Literacy Week (AEFL)
MONTGOMERY, ALA. – The Alabama Community College System (ACCS), along with its member colleges throughout the state, joins the nation in celebration of the week of September 21st -26th as national Adult Education and Family Literacy Week (AEFL).
Designated by Congress, national Adult Education and Family Literacy Week raises public awareness of adult education and family literacy, assists adult learners in need of literacy services, leverages local resources, and supports increased access to adult education and family literacy programs. Advocates across the country use this opportunity to elevate adult education and family literacy nationwide with policymakers, the media, and the community.
Throughout the state and nation, various activities and events have been planned in recognition of the week. Locally, Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange signed a proclamation sponsored by the Capital Area Adult Literacy Council declaring the week as National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week in Montgomery.
Speaking on the importance of adult literacy, ACCS Chancellor Dr. Mark Heinrich said, “Among the three primary focuses of our mission as the Alabama Community College System is Adult Education. Alabama’s two-year colleges provide a vast array of programs and services for adult students in need of employment training, workforce training and education for career advancement.”
“It is essential that we maintain a strong workforce for Alabama to continue to emerge from our economic downturn. National and international businesses continue to look to Alabama for growth opportunities and a highly-skilled workforce. Small businesses, the lifeblood of our state’s economy, count on us to provide skilled workers equipped with new and enhanced skill sets to meet their changing needs. Through our adult education and literary programs, we are opening the door of opportunity for many who want to improve their lives and the lives of their families,” added Heinrich.
Alabama’s adult education program provides quality adult education and literacy services to Alabamians at no cost. Adult education classes provide a second opportunity for adult learners committed to improving their academic and life skills. Last year, ACCS and its member colleges served over 29,000 individuals through adult education programs and close to 5,000 GED certificates were awarded across the state.
For more information about the Alabama Community College System Adult Education program, contact David Walters at 334-293-4561, visit the ACCS website at www.accs.cc or contact your local community college.