CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (October 4, 2016)—Kirkwood Community College seeks volunteer tutors to meet the rising demands of adult basic education in Iowa’s Creative Corridor.
The U.S. Census Bureau reports there are approximately 23,000 residents in Benton, Cedar, Iowa, Jones, Johnson, Linn and Washington counties who are over the age of 18 without a high school diploma. More than 14,700 speak a language other than English at home.
The college’s High School Completion Programs help adults without a high school diploma or equivalent to strengthen their literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills in adult basic and secondary education classes. English as a Second Language (ESL) classes are also offered. Last year nearly 1,100 students were served.
“Adult education is key to closing social and economic disparities and stimulating the economy,” said Director of High School Completion Programs Marcel Kielkucki. “According to the Commission on Adult Basic Education (COABE), for every dollar invested in adult basic education, a community receives $60 back in increased income, property taxes, and savings on welfare and legal system expenses.”
Adult education courses are offered at every Kirkwood location. ESL classes take place in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Washington and Monticello. Volunteer tutors are needed for those requiring additional attention. The college provides training for volunteers who must be 18 years of age or older.
Kirkwood’s call for tutors comes in the wake of COABE’s National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week. Last week’s effort generated awareness of adult illiteracy affecting 36 million Americans.
For more information about High School Completion Programs or to tutor call (319) 784 -1516.