Adult education groups seek to preserve state funding
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Supporters of adult education today called attention to the value of their programs as legislators tackle the state budget.
Statewide, adult education programs this year received about $17 million, a decrease from $23 million the previous year.
Yet adult education statewide serves more than 40,000 people at a cost of about $300 per person.
"Where in the nation can you buy an education for $300?" said Donald Block, executive director of the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council.
He said the services save the public money by helping people get the skills necessary for employment and by reducing the chances of incarceration.
The presentation -- called Adult Education Matters -- was made by the Adult Basic Education Coalition, which includes the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, Bidwell Training Center, Carlow University, Focus on Renewal, Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania, Community College of Allegheny County, Forbes Road Career & Technology Center, Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council and Renewal Inc.
Services provided by the various organizations include literacy training, GED preparation, welfare to work, family literacy and English as a second language.
First Published May 7, 2010 12:35 pm
