Dr. Jean DeVard-Kemp
Assistant Commissioner
Office of Adult Literacy

IN THIS ISSUE

From the Desk of the Assistant Commissioner

Dear Friends of Adult Literacy,

Welcome to the Winter Edition of Perspectives, the quarterly newsletter produced by the Georgia Department of Technical and Adult Education, Office of Adult Literacy. This edition takes a look at English Literacy Programs (ELP), formerly known as English As a Second Language (ESL), and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). These programs are designed to focus on foreign-born students and to assist them in obtaining the language skills and academic achievement they need to function in society. In addition, as with all adult basic education courses, ELP assists students in developing the skills and abilities they need to be productive members of the growing workforce in Georgia.

Information gathered through recent surveys indicates that non-native students in need of adult literacy services in Georgia are among the fastest-growing segment of the population. A rising number of immigrants, migrant workers, and refugees have prompted adult literacy classroom size to increase statewide. The students come with a multitude of needs, including language barriers, citizenship training, and skills related to the job market.

English Literacy Programs offer these students the training they need to succeed. Classes set up in urban areas, such as those at DeKalb, Gwinnett, and Lanier Technical Institutes have shown the greatest influx of students from around the world. In an effort to meet the needs of students, classes are taught at all levels of instruction with accommodating schedules to meet the needs of the employed, jobseekers, and the newly arrived. Moreover, coordination between state agencies has successfully encouraged participants to bring other family members into education. Learning is contagious, and the language needs of these individuals are being met through instruction from dedicated ELP teachers. As always, I thank you for supporting adult literacy in Georgia, and for helping the Office of Adult Literacy to address the literacy needs of the world's citizens who have chosen Georgia as their home.