The Literacy Council has taken many approaches over the last three decades toward increasing English literacy among those living and working around the Gulf Coast. With so many programs, methods, and classes, it can be hard to keep track of the opportunities available to those looking to increase their English literacy. Below is a summary of our most popular programs. If you know anybody who could benefit from learning with the Literacy Council, send them our way!

Carol De Joy Moms & Tots® Program

The Moms & Tots® Program is dedicated to empowering at-risk mothers through increased literacy and language skills, while also preparing their preschool-aged children to enter school. This unique program teaches mothers and other caregivers in small groups, helping them improve their English language skills and increase their communication skills. Meanwhile, their children are given basic instruction to ensure that they have the foundation to begin a successful academic career. Mothers and children are then brought together to continue their education through art, educational toys, and reading. Based on surveys and our research, 100% of child graduates reach the program goal and enter school at, or above, level with their peers.

The Kids+ Lifelong Learning Initiative

In this class, the parents of older children enrolled in Title 1 Schools come to the school and receive tutoring. This program enables parents to take a more active role in their children’s education. Students whose parents have an increased presence in their education have better attendance, are more likely to graduate, and perform better on tests. This program currently operates in fifteen area schools.

Adult Literacy Classes

Adult Literacy offers preparation for the GED and U.S. citizenship tests, as well as classes in English language and conversation, computer literacy, and other focused subject areas. Adult Literacy classes incorporate several types of curricula for English Language Learners such as Side by Side and English in Action, as well as the Barton Reading and Spelling System, which aids students with learning disabilities such as dyslexia.

Worksite Literacy

The Worksite Literacy Program is an innovative method that encourages gated communities to invest in their employees and enable the employees to create better opportunities for themselves. Residents volunteer through LCGC and dedicate time to teach English to the community’s employees. Having classes available at the workplace removes barriers such as transportation and time that might otherwise prevent the employees from pursuing their education. Employees who participate in the Worksite Literacy Program become qualified to move into management positions with their current employers. Employees become more marketable individuals, capable of communicating with customers, vendors, and the public.