It Takes The Whole Community

IF adult education centers could work together, we could solve a lot of problems.

I have mentioned the Philadelphia Literacy Alliance as one model. Lately I have read about ESL Networks, with libraries as the "Hub".

Libraries are perfect places for adults to start learning English as a Second or Foreign Language, on one hand, and on the other hand they are perfect places to work toward coordinating an outreach campaign to the whole community. 

Why? 

First, many libraries offer free literacy classes to adults to begin with. And libraries usually have a computer lab open to the public, and some libraries lend out laptops just like books.

So...many adult English learners could start their lessons at a library and then, when they are ready, they could enroll at a nearby adult ed center.

Now...I know that all this happens on an informal basis anyway. But my point is that if it were formalized and if there were publicity, etc., then more people could be included and, in my opinion, funding agencies would probably be more likely to provide large grants that could be shared by the participating adult ed centers. 

 In my opinion the "vexing" problems associated with adult ESFL programs could all be solved with this kind of approach.