can get something to eat! The Student Government Association is working to get a Hygiene Pantry started so that students may have

Cares The Adult Education Department About Individuals Who Lack Literacy Skills

By Alexandra Blockton ablockton@lc.edu

Did you know there are a total of 18,000 individuals who lack literacy skills in the Lewis and Clark District? Thirty-six million adults nationwide lack literacy skills. In Illinois alone there are 1.2 million. Lacking literacy skills limits an individual’s ability to advance at work, as well as in their education

“All of the programs in L&C’s Adult Education department revolve around meeting the educational needs of adults who lack basic skills. Most have dropped out of high school, and are looking for a non-traditional way to find their path and fulfill their potential,” said Associate Dean of Adult Education Dr. Valorie Harris.

Lewis and Clark Community College is one out of 84 adult education providers who offer programs funded through the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB). Their main goal is to expand and improve the lives of individuals who lack the necessary literacy skills for employment as well as education.

Vicki Hinkle, retired L&C Director of Adult Education, said, “We provide students with a learning environment in which they can thrive, encourage them to reach their educational career goals and support them as they transition to post-secondary or to work. Each student matters to us and every team member goes above and beyond in assisting our students to realize their full potential.”

Lewis and Clark Community College recognizes Literacy and National Adult Education Week, held in September, which acknowledges the need for adult education. The week recognizes adult education and how it helps the adult learners benefit from succeeding in their educational goals of completing their high school equivalency. Adult Education also helps if students have future goals after receiving their GED Diploma.