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This project is to update the knowledge, training, software and materials to operate a scarce, and unique facet os the literacy need in Tarrant County. The focus is on class instruction for Adult English Speakers who are below literacy level 10, which is the recognized level for GED and entry into college level or vocational education. The formal label for this level of class instruction is Pre-GED (for levels 5 - 9), or Adult Basic Education (ABE) for literacy levels 0 (no reading comprehension)through level 4. Arlington Rotary started a Pre-GED/ABE instruction program in 2009 at the urging of United Way. The program flourished, and contributed greatly to the literacy improvement of adults from almost every city in Tarrant County. In 2011, it was transitioned to Arlington Library, and became a part of Arlington Reads, which provides a wide range of classes serving numerous categories of need.
However, there has been substantial change in personnel within the Library Staff since 2011, when Rotary provided the last orientation and training for the best practices of using the instructional material. There is a need, acknowledge by Arlington Reads, to reconnect with these best practices through Training, demonstration, refreshing teaching materials, and addition of new specialized software to help adult clients in the Pre-GED (level 5-9) category. These programs eventually feed in to GED capability. During the instructional year September 1 through May, 2015, the project will fund three session of best practice training provided by Learning Center of North Texas, and by Literacy For Texans (LIFT) in Dallas. Both provided the original instructional guidance and materials for the program started in 2009-10. In addition, the project will enable attendance and participation in one State, and one National training conference provide by Pro-Literacy, and the newly established Texas Association for Adult Education and Literacy. The objective is to elevate the experience and knowledge of the key Literacy Staff on whom the effectiveness and growth of the instructional programs depend.
Rotarians in this club are deeply engaged with Arlington Reads and Literacy, some serving as instructors. One member is also the District Foundation Advisor for Education and Literacy, and is arranging the re-establishment of the Arlington Reads key personnel with the resources that can help them sustain their service to the County.
According to Tarrant Literacy Coalition and Learning Center For North Texas, the change in distribution of State and Federal literacy funds, as well as changes in United Way policy, have redirected funds to Workforce and GED programs that are above the level of large portions of the adult low literacy clients. The only source of funding for this level of literacy education will apparently be from private funding sources. Arlington Rotary began its service in the Literacy Field with these critical need levels of education. This project renews that committment, and will enable Arlington Reads to continue to be a primary source for instruction of adults needing instruction in these basic levels.
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