Adult Education

     Adult Education needs to be recognized and supported for the significant place it occupies on the continuum of educational services for California residents.  Flexible, personalized, competency based and inclusive education are hallmarks of Adult Education.  Despite funding inequities, neglect and lack of respect, adult education programs continue to respond to the needs of their communities with almost a sense of mission on the part of dedicated teachers, administrators and support staff.  Adult education has historically taken on the challenge of meeting the needs of those "hardest to serve" in the community, and has provided an important safety net for high school students who have needed extra support.  It would indeed be a shame if political agendas took precedence over the quality programs that are being provided by those who are the least powerful in our communities.
     Adult aducators would welcome the opportunity to clarify their role to those seeking educational services.  Adult Education typically collaborates regularly with a wide range of service providers and will continue to do so.  The Master Plan needs to acknowledge the significant and unique services and opportunities that Adult Education makes available to adults, the disabled, senior and concurrent high school students in California