The number of linguistically diverse students in our school systems is continually increasing, yet the teaching force remains predominately monolingual. Authors of the research article “‘It’s a Different World’: Language Ideologies, Literacies, and College Readiness” point out that this discrepancy shapes teachers’ perceptions of what they believe a linguistically diverse student needs to become college ready. 

Do you work for, volunteer, or learn in an education program that has Adult Literacy in its name? How about Adult Basic Education (ABE), Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE), or just Adult Education? If those or other names work for you, no problem. This article’s purpose is not to persuade you to change the name of your program; however, there is a problem with the name of our field as a whole.  

We are so excited that today, on International Literacy Day, we can announce that through the Write Her Future initiative, Lancôme is sponsoring our work in the country of Panama to educate Guna women! 

ProLiteracy’s Director of Professional Development Todd Evans and Senior Membership Manager Michelle Smith met virtually with ACAL President Jo Medlin. They spoke about their organizations and the similarities and differences between adult education and literacy in the U.S. and Australia.  

Earlier this month I had the pleasure of representing ProLiteracy for the launch of a new women’s education program in Panama. ProLiteracy will be working with two local nonprofit organizations: Centro de Estudios y Acción Social Panameño (CEASPA) and Coordinadora Nacional de Mujeres Indígenas de Panamá (CONAMUIP). ProLiteracy will assist with administration, management, training, and material development.