ANNOUNCEMENT

The New Jersey Association for Lifelong Learning has released an issue paper, Adult Literacy in NJ - May 2007, that calls attention to serious weaknesses of the current adult literacy delivery system in New Jersey and provides major recommendations for improving the capacity of the system to respond more effectively to an increasingly larger problem.

The fact that New Jersey has a significant adult literacy problem which deeply impacts both the health of our NJ economy and our citizens who need literacy services is well documented. It is vitally important that a comprehensive master plan be developed to chart a supportable continuum of services that provide a cohesive and productive future for adult literacy students. New Jersey needs a strong plan and the necessary resources to provide more adequate educational opportunities for low-literate adults, ranging from basic education instruction to high school completion, as well as increased opportunitites to transition effectively to post-secondary or certificated training.

NJALL believes that it is essential to expand opportunities and increase the effectiveness and efficiency of existing programs for learners of adult basic skills and English for speakers of other languages. The economy of NJ, supported by more literate individuals and families, supportive organizations, healthy communities, and successful businesses, will be stronger and better prepared to meet the challenges of the future.

Click here for a copy of Adult Literacy in NJ - May 2007