HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) recently awarded over $1 million to five educational entities to train and support volunteer adult literacy instructors. This initiative aims to enhance adult education and literacy programs across the state.
“Learning is a lifelong pursuit, and this grant funding will help more adults continue their learning in literacy programs run by qualified tutors,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin. “By ensuring that adults across the Commonwealth can access high-quality educational programming, we are helping them live meaningful, productive lives and pursue infinite possibilities of success.”
The grants were distributed as follows:
- Pennsylvania State University received $133,106 for programs in Centre and Lycoming counties.
- Lehigh Carbon Community College was awarded $84,348 for its initiatives in Lehigh County.
- Intermediate Unit 1 secured $58,000 to support Washington County.
- Literacy Council of Lancaster Lebanon obtained $150,000 for efforts in Lancaster and Lebanon counties.
- Literacy Pittsburgh received the largest share, $659,046, for Allegheny and Beaver counties.
The grant program aims to broaden educational opportunities for undereducated adults and their families. It also focuses on individuals who primarily speak languages other than English or have been previously unserved. The goals include increasing and improving services to adult learners and their families by coordinating funding streams and programs across state agencies. It also aims to expand adult and family literacy education programs to help adults function more effectively in their personal lives and as citizens, better preparing them for workforce training and employment.
Eligible grantees include school districts, intermediate units, vocational-technical schools, community colleges, literacy councils, local libraries, community-based organizations, and other recognized educational entities.
This funding marks a significant step toward improving adult literacy in Pennsylvania, offering hope and opportunities for thousands of adults seeking to enhance their education and life skills.
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