Contact
Donate
Menu

LitTX Group Chat

by

Want to ask a question? 

Need help with something? 

Maybe you want some new ideas or resources for your literacy program? 

Have some feedback or a request for an upcoming training session? 

Drop by this virtual session and chat with the Literacy Texas team. All literacy questions welcome!

There’s no agenda and no presentation – just an open time for literacy chat.

Join us online on

Monday, December 15

any time between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM (CT)

There’s no official “start” to this event, so come whenever you like – and stay for as long or as short a time as you like.

No prior registration is needed. We’re looking forward to seeing where the conversation takes us!

NOTE: This is the same as our old “Coffee With Literacy Texas” events, just with a new name.

CLICK HERE ON DECEMBER 15 TO JOIN THE SESSION

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

Checked/updated 9/18/25

Best of Texas: Career Navigation

by

Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 

Read more about the Best of Texas monthly online series.

QUICK LINKS FOR THIS BEST OF TEXAS EVENT:

Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section, or simply scroll down the page.

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CT).

The Zoom room will open to registered attendees at 9:50 AM.

Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins.

This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy.

ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC

Career navigation isn’t just a checklist—it’s a journey. It’s the process of discovering who you are, where you want to go, and what it’ll take to get there. For adult learners, that journey is rarely linear. It’s full of pivots, pauses, and powerful decisions.

But what does it take for learners to navigate successfully?

What knowledge do they need about themselves and the opportunities available to them?

How can they make informed decisions about which career pathways align with their goals and abilities?

What skills will help them build momentum as they move through their education and into the workforce?

And what resources and support systems need to be in place to help them overcome barriers and stay on track?

Primary Topic Area
professional development topic - work readiness, literacy for work
Session will also cover:
professional development topic - community partnerships, collaboration
professional development topic - advocacy, public awareness
Audience
training session audience - general audience
Level
training session level - beginner
Texas AEL PD Category

Assigned by TCALL

Texas AEL PD category - OTHER

Read more about the PD categories on the TCALL website.

See the full Texas AEL Guide.

Other info:

No other info available at this time.

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Nolen, Traci

Traci Nolen
Program Specialist
Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Office of Apprenticeship

Traci Nolen, Program Specialist with TWC’s Office of Apprenticeship, provides Senior Level Consultative services and technical assistance work for the Texas Workforce Commission. With over 20 years of workforce experience across Kentucky and Texas, Traci has served as a Project Manager for local workforce boards in both states.

Over the years, some of Traci’s favorite workforce projects included turning Coal Miners into coders, establishing a network of 15 community Job Clubs across Eastern Kentucky, and providing workforce recovery efforts during Hurricane Harvey. Today, she is proud to be on the front lines for TWC supporting apprenticeship expansion efforts for employers across Texas.

headshot placeholder

Name
Title
XY

Info

Info

Additional guests to be confirmed.

Host:

Aguilera-Jackie-2-v2-300px

Jacqueline Aguilera
Community Liaison & Program Host
Literacy Texas

Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38 years of diverse experience across educational and non-profit sectors. With a focus on adult literacy, she has left an indelible mark on various initiatives and projects in the multi-layered field of adult literacy.

As an experienced adult education innovations designer, she earned a 2021 Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias Award for creative ed tech applications in adult education. Her service impact also extends beyond the classroom into the workforce. She empowers both employers and employees through worksite literacy training and independent consulting. She leads a local fellowship of adult education providers called the Houston Area Adult Literacy Collective (the incredible HAALC), serves on many committees, boards, and projects impacting adult learners and families, and most recently served as Project Manager for Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy.

In summary, Jacqueline’s multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing literacy and education across diverse communities and platforms. Currently on a journey through breast cancer treatment, she is more than ever committed to advancing the lives of all those she serves, making her a messenger of inspiration, innovation, and evolution.

FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION

click here to register now

REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM

Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!

Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements.

PD CERTIFICATES

Participants who complete the full session will receive 1 hour of PD credit.

Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email after the training, and certificates will be prepared and sent after the survey closes.

Please pay attention to the due dates – after each event is wrapped up, we will not be able to go back and re-issue your PD certificate. If you know you’ll need a certificate at a later date, please take care to request it in a timely manner!

SPECIAL THANKS

[presenter]

[name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant, new line for each]

The Texas Workforce Commission

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

Checked/updated 11/18/25

What Leaders Need: Finding & Keeping Amazing Volunteers

by

When resources are tight, it can be difficult to know where to turn to get answers on core topics – but those answers are crucial to leaders’ ability to offer quality programs. 

What Leaders Need, for new and emerging literacy leaders, is presented via a tri-state partnership. Literacy Texas is proud to partner with Adult Learning Alliance of Arkansas and Oklahoma Literacy Coalition to bring quality professional development to literacy leaders across three states.

Read more about the What Leaders Need quarterly online training series.

QUICK LINKS FOR THIS WHAT LEADERS NEED SESSION:

Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section, or simply scroll down the page.

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM (CT).

Check-in for registered participants will open on Zoom at 8:50 AM. 

Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins.

This training session is offered free of charge to Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy.

ABOUT THIS TOPIC

Volunteers can make so many good things happen, and can help adult literacy programs with lean budgets do more than would otherwise be possible.

So where can you find reliable folks?
What’s reasonable to expect of them in terms of training and ongoing time commitment?
How can you show your gratitude in ways that resonate?
And above all – how can you be sure that what a volunteer can provide is what the adult students in your literacy programs need?

In this panel discussion, hear from adult literacy professionals who work closely with volunteers, about what they’ve learned and how they make it all work.

Primary Topic Area
professional development topic - volunteer support and management
Session will also cover:
professional development topic - community partnerships, collaboration
professional development topic - advocacy, public awareness
Audience
training session audience - decision makers
Level
training session level - beginner
Texas AEL PD Category

Assigned by TCALL

Texas AEL PD category - OTHER

Read more about the PD categories on the TCALL website.

See the full Texas AEL Guide.

Other info:

No other info available at this time.

MEET THE PANELISTS

Davis, Bruce

Bruce Davis

Coordinator| Great Plains Literacy Council

Bruce Davis is a retired pastor who has maintained a deep commitment to the cause of literacy. Throughout his career and into retirement, he has remained actively involved in promoting literacy within his community.

Before retiring, he dedicated seven years to serving as a board member for the Great Plains Literacy Council (GPLC) in Altus, Oklahoma. Five of those years, he served as the board president. His board experience provided him with valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing literacy organizations in rural areas.

When the position of Coordinator for the Great Plains Literacy Council was left vacant, he decided to step into the role in 2022. As Coordinator, Bruce focuses on managing the overall program and staff, securing funding, handling publicity, and recruiting both tutors and learners. Although the job encompasses many tasks, he especially enjoys sharing the organization’s story and recruiting new participants.

Bruce has recently begun a second term as President of the Oklahoma Literacy Coalition. This role allows him to contribute to literacy efforts at the state level, expanding his impact beyond his immediate community.

Evans, Todd

Todd Evans

Senior Director of Programs | ProLiteracy

Todd Evans is the Senior Director of Programs for ProLiteracy. He is responsible for the strategic direction and management of the services ProLiteracy provides to the adult education field, including professional development, domestic and international projects and partnerships, and membership.

Todd has been with ProLiteracy since 1995. He has spent most of his time with ProLiteracy providing training and support to tutors, teachers, students, and program managers in a variety of subjects.

Todd graduated from Memphis State University (now the University of Memphis) in 1990 with a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations. He started work on a Master’s degree in Sociology, but stopped to begin working for the Memphis Literacy Council.

Todd began his literacy career in Memphis, TN, first as a volunteer tutor for the Memphis Literacy Council, and later as a staff member where he was an administrative assistant, community liaison, and trainer.

Todd is a member of many literacy and training organizations, including the Literacy Roundtable, a consortium of literacy providers throughout the St. Louis-Metro East area.

Todd has lived in St. Louis since 2001. Outside of literacy, he enjoys cooking and sports, particularly playing golf and watching University of Tennessee football and Cardinal baseball.

Vazquez, Sonia

Sonia Vazquez

Director| ESL Classes in Plano

Sonia Vazquez has volunteered at Prestonwood Baptist Church-Plano Campus since 2000, where she has taught Level 5 and Citizenship classes and served as Director of the ESL Program for the past 14 years. The program currently serves over 500 students with 65 volunteers, using the Ventures Series by Cambridge University. Offering 21 classes each semester, it maintains a 75–80% return rate and a waiting list of 250–350 students, with registration opening three months in advance due to high demand.

Venhaus, Dana

Dana Venhaus

Executive Director | Literacy Action of Central Arkansas

Dana Venhaus has been Executive Director of Literacy Action of Central Arkansas since 2022. Prior to that she was with Arkansas Extended Learning, a private community education organization she founded and managed for 20 years. She has an undergraduate degree in psychology, did her master’s work in Public Administration and is a certified public manager and certified volunteer manager.

Dana lives in Little Rock with her four-legged kids, loves spending time with family and friends, reading, traveling, pickleball, and all things outdoors. Her daughter and son-in-law live in San Francisco.

HOST

Walker, Jenny

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker
Executive Director
Literacy Texas

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker serves as the Executive Director of Literacy Texas. She was a first-generation college student who personally knows the powerful role that education plays in helping change the course of a person’s life. This passion has fueled a career in education that has spanned over two decades and impacted thousands of students. She earned a doctorate in education leadership and a master’s degree in education administration, both from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. Dr. Walker also attended Texarkana College and was a graduate of Liberty-Eylau High School. 
 
She is a member of the 2025 Leadership Texas class and she currently serves as a member of the Digital Opportunity Advisory Group for the Texas Broadband Development Office. In 2024, Dr. Walker represented Texas in COABE’s 2024 State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship. 

FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION

click here to register now

REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM

Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!

Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements.

PD CERTIFICATES

Participants who complete the full session will receive 1.5 hours of PD credit.

Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email after the training, and certificates will be prepared and sent after the survey closes.

Please pay attention to the due dates – after each event is wrapped up, we will not be able to go back and re-issue your PD certificate. If you know you’ll need a certificate at a later date, please take care to request it in a timely manner!

DOWNLOADS & PRINTABLE DOCUMENTS

Download a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending [link whole sentence to PDF of flyer].

Downloadable PDF flyer for this training session is coming soon.

SPECIAL THANKS

[presenter]

[name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant, new line for each]

The Texas Workforce Commission

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

Page checked/updated: 11/11/25

Best of Texas: Adult Learner Persistence & Retention

by

Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way. 

Read more about the Best of Texas monthly online series.

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

QUICK LINKS FOR THIS BEST OF TEXAS EVENT:

Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section, or simply scroll down the page.

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CT).

The Zoom room will open to registered attendees at 9:50 AM.

Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins.

This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy.

ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC

Most adult students know what they need and why they want to learn. How can we always put them at the very center of their own learning process, and make the learning experience one they actually look forward to?

Primary Topic Area
professional development topic - instructional theory, methodology, research
Session will also cover:
professional development topic - access for everyone
professional development topic - staff & program management for nonprofits
Audience
training session audience - general audience
Level
training session level -intermediate
Texas AEL PD Category

Assigned by TCALL

Texas AEL PD category - PAL

Read more about the PD categories on the TCALL website.

See the full Texas AEL Guide.

Other info:

No other info available at this time.

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Borjon, Ashley

Ashley Borjon
Adult Education Program Director
Literacy Council of Fort Bend County

Ashley Borjon brings over 20 years of experience in management, instruction, and facilitation, with a career dedicated to adult education, workforce readiness, and community engagement. She currently serves as Program Director with the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, where she leads initiatives that strengthen adult education and community partnerships.

A skilled consultant and instructional designer, Ashley’s focus includes program development, digital literacy, and career readiness training. Passionate about creating equitable learning opportunities, she champions innovation and empowerment through education. 

Delgado, Diana

Diana Delgado
Manager of Socioeconomic Mobility
BakerRipley

Diana Delgado holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Zulia, Venezuela, providing the foundation for her passion for empowering individuals through opportunity. She is a results-oriented leader and subject matter expert in adult education, workforce development, and socioeconomic mobility.

Currently, she serves as the Manager of Socioeconomic Mobility at BakerRipley (since November 2022), providing strategic leadership to a cross-trained team. Diana drives the development and implementation of high-impact support services, leveraging data-driven strategies for positive participant outcomes, including Internationally Trained Professionals and adult students. Previously, she guided underrepresented residents toward tech careers as a Mobility Mentor Coach. Her expertise in financial stability and community partnerships, honed at Memorial Assistance Ministries and Literacy Advance, consistently expands access to vital resources.

Spruce, Gloria

Gloria Spruce
President & CEO
Adult Education Center

Gloria Taylor Spruce is an accomplished nonprofit executive, public speaker, trainer, mentor, and fundraiser with more than a decade of experience advancing education, workforce development, and economic mobility across the Houston–Galveston region.

She serves as President & CEO of the Adult Education Center in Pearland, Texas, where she leads programs that connect adult learners to training, employment, and career growth through strong partnerships with employers, workforce boards, and community organizations. Under her leadership, the Center has expanded collaborations with corporate, civic, and educational partners and increased fundraising capacity to support equitable access to education and workforce opportunities.

Gloria is also the founder of Refined Solutions Group, a consulting firm specializing in organizational development, leadership training, and strategic planning for nonprofits and small businesses. Deeply committed to community service, she serves on multiple boards and advisory committees that focus on education, equity, and systemic change.

Recognized for her dynamic leadership, collaborative approach, and engaging speaking style, Gloria empowers individuals and organizations to overcome barriers, strengthen partnerships, and lead with purpose, vision, and measurable impact.

Host:

Aguilera-Jackie-2-v2-300px

Jacqueline Aguilera
Community Liaison & Program Host
Literacy Texas

Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38 years of diverse experience across educational and non-profit sectors. With a focus on adult literacy, she has left an indelible mark on various initiatives and projects in the multi-layered field of adult literacy.

As an experienced adult education innovations designer, she earned a 2021 Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias Award for creative ed tech applications in adult education. Her service impact also extends beyond the classroom into the workforce. She empowers both employers and employees through worksite literacy training and independent consulting. She leads a local fellowship of adult education providers called the Houston Area Adult Literacy Collective (the incredible HAALC), serves on many committees, boards, and projects impacting adult learners and families, and most recently served as Project Manager for Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy.

In summary, Jacqueline’s multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing literacy and education across diverse communities and platforms. Currently on a journey through breast cancer treatment, she is more than ever committed to advancing the lives of all those she serves, making her a messenger of inspiration, innovation, and evolution.

FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION

click here to register now

REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM

Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!

PD CERTIFICATES

Someone who completes the full session will receive 1 hour of PD credit.

Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training.

SPECIAL THANKS

Ashley Borjon

Diana Delgado

Gloria Spruce

The Texas Workforce Commission

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Checked/updated 11/13/25

South Texas Literacy Symposium

by

Regional symposia focus primarily on adult literacy, and provide free professional development for volunteers and staff of nonprofit, community-based adult and family literacy programs. 

Your local symposium is an excellent place to network with other literacy providers in your region, and a great source of professional development for volunteer and other instructors, as well as administrative staff.

Read more about Literacy Texas regional symposia, made possible through a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission.

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

QUICK LINKS FOR THE SOUTH TEXAS SYMPOSIUM:

Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section, or simply scroll down the page.

BASIC DETAILS

The 2025 South Texas Literacy Symposium will be a half-day symposium, and will be held on:

Friday, November 14, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 1:15 PM (CT).

Check-in for pre-registered participants will open at 9:30 AM, with the full program beginning at 10:00 AM.

This symposium is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy. See Symposium FAQs for more information.

SYMPOSIUM FAQs

Click on a question to see the answer.

Q: Hang on - "symposium"? Don't you mean "conference"?

A: Literacy Texas does have an annual conference! It’s held every summer.

Our regional symposia are a different type of event to the conference.

Each symposium:

  • Takes place in a different Texas region to help minimize travel
  • Has a local focus
  • Is free to attend
  • Generally takes place on one day (some symposia are 2 days)
  • Includes workshops for both classroom instructors and program administrators
  • Is the primary training Literacy Texas offers for literacy volunteers
  • Offers 2.5 – 5 hours of professional development, sometimes more

Read more about the symposia here.

Read more about the annual conference here.

A: Anyone interested in adult and family literacy in Texas is welcome at the symposium. The people who will gain the most are instructors at community-based adult literacy organizations and nonprofits.

Volunteer tutors and teachers are especially welcome!

When we create the symposium program, we use the broadest definition of “literacy”, to include all of Adult Foundational Education: adult basic education, English as an additional language, high school equivalency, digital literacy, and workforce readiness, along with other kinds of teaching and learning.

A: YES! Anyone who lives in Texas is welcome at any Literacy Texas symposium. 

Two words: LOCAL + FREE!

Each symposium program includes both key topics of universal interest to adult literacy programs, and a focus on the local needs of the region. When you complete our Annual Survey every year, we use the results to invite speakers and presenters on topics you said you particularly wanted and needed.

Furthermore, registration is free. You won’t need a large budget for travel or an overnight stay, in the vast majority of cases. We hope that many folks from the same organization can come to the symposium – there’s no limit on how many people can attend from one place. It’s a lot harder to send lots of people to conferences, since we know costs stack up pretty quickly. 

A: The symposium is free to attend. Thanks to a generous grant from the Texas Workforce Commission, Literacy Texas can cover the costs of your tuition, any meals and snacks offered, materials, and other resources. 

Please be aware that in recent years, between 15% and 30% of registrants are no-shows at our training events. Every one of these costs us money (since we’ve already paid for food, materials, and more).

If you’ve registered for a Literacy Texas event but then find you can no longer attend, PLEASE get in touch to cancel your registration.

A: Yes! Literacy Texas offers PD credit in conjunction with TCALL.

Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email in the days following the training. 

Please pay attention to the due dates communicated at your symposium – after each event is wrapped up, we will not be able to go back and re-issue your PD certificate. If you know you’ll need a certificate at a later date, please take care to request it in a timely manner!

LOCATION

This symposium will be held in the Meeting Center, McAllen Public Library: 4001 N 23rd St, McAllen, TX 78504.

Area in use during the symposium is highlighted in yellow.

Use the main entrance from Fountain Circle/Mall.

Click here for map and parking information

LUNCH MENU DETAILS

Over the Moon: Croissant sandwich with chicken salad and spinach

All Heart, No Meat: Vegan buns, black-bean patty, spinach, vegan cheese, avocado

Select your lunch during the online registration process.

FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION

This session has reached capacity and we are forming a waitlist.

Use the registration button below to add your name to the list.

Registration for this session has now closed

click here to register now

REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM

Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!

Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants!

Call us at 972-926-3155 to make arrangements.

PD CERTIFICATES

Attendees can receive up to 2.5 hours of PD credit at this symposium.

Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate.Surveys will be sent via email after the training, and certificates will be prepared and sent after the survey closes.

Please pay attention to the due dates communicated at your symposium – after each event is wrapped up, we will not be able to go back and re-issue your PD certificate. If you know you’ll need a certificate at a later date, please take care to request it in a timely manner!

PROGRAM, SESSIONS, & SPEAKERS

Schedule will be kept as current as possible but is subject to change; check back here for updates

9:30 AM – 10:00 AM: CHECK-IN FOR PRE-REGISTERED ATTENDEES

Location: Pending

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: WELCOME, OPENING REMARKS

Location: Auditorium

Aguilera-Jackie-2-v2-300px

Jacqueline Aguilera

Community Liaison & Program Host, Literacy Texas

Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38 years of diverse experience across educational and non-profit sectors. With a focus on adult literacy, she has left an indelible mark on various initiatives and projects in the multi-layered field of adult literacy.

As an experienced adult education innovations designer, she earned a 2021 Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias Award for creative ed tech applications in adult education. Her service impact also extends beyond the classroom into the workforce. She empowers both employers and employees through worksite literacy training and independent consulting. She leads a local fellowship of adult education providers called the Houston Area Adult Literacy Collective (the incredible HAALC), serves on many committees, boards, and projects impacting adult learners and families, and most recently served as Project Manager for Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy.

In summary, Jacqueline’s multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing literacy and education across diverse communities and platforms. Currently on a journey through breast cancer treatment, she is more than ever committed to advancing the lives of all those she serves, making her a messenger of inspiration, innovation, and evolution.

10:15 AM – 10:45 AM

Opening Session (30 min)

Title of Session

Session description pending.

Location: Auditorium

Benavidez, Rose

Rose Benavidez

President, Starr County Industrial Foundation

A native of Starr County, Rose has served as the first female President of the Starr County Industrial Foundation (SCIF) since 2004 where she has dedicated her professional career to developing the local economy, while improving access to education and creating job opportunities. During her tenure the organization she leads has reinvigorated the community’s economic outlook with over $4.0 billion of private investment and the creation of over 6,500 permanent and temporary jobs. In 2009 she was elected to represent Starr County on the South Texas College (STC) Board of Trustees and by 2012 was named the youngest Board Chair in the college’s history. In 2022 she was elected the first Latina woman to serve as Chair of the National Association of Community College Trustees, since its formation over 50 years ago.

Rose is committed to improving the economic standing and quality of life of her region and continues to find innovative ways to strengthen her constituent’s voice on issues affecting her community. She is often a featured speaker and presenter at events that address issues that include economic and community development, higher education, civic-engagement, leadership, women empowerment and advocacy. She has found a way to lead by example through her selfless volunteerism and service to countless local, regional, state and national non-profits, civic organizations and charities. For her efforts and contributions, she has received a variety of awards and recognitions throughout her career.

Rose received her BA in Political Science and her Masters in Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Texas Pan American and has attained her Basic Economic Development Certification from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).

10:45 AM – 11:15 AM

Networking Activity (30 min)

“Real People. Real Needs. Real Opportunities.”

Real people, real needs, and real opportunities to build together. Come ready to listen, share, and remix in this dynamic 30-minute session —a fast-paced, high-impact networking experience designed to spark meaningful connections, uncover shared challenges, and ignite collaborative solutions across the South Texas literacy landscape.

Location: Auditorium

Aguilera-Jackie-2-v2-300px

Jacqueline Aguilera

Community Liaison & Program Host, Literacy Texas

Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38 years of diverse experience across educational and non-profit sectors. With a focus on adult literacy, she has left an indelible mark on various initiatives and projects in the multi-layered field of adult literacy.

As an experienced adult education innovations designer, she earned a 2021 Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias Award for creative ed tech applications in adult education. Her service impact also extends beyond the classroom into the workforce. She empowers both employers and employees through worksite literacy training and independent consulting. She leads a local fellowship of adult education providers called the Houston Area Adult Literacy Collective (the incredible HAALC), serves on many committees, boards, and projects impacting adult learners and families, and most recently served as Project Manager for Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy.

In summary, Jacqueline’s multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing literacy and education across diverse communities and platforms. Currently on a journey through breast cancer treatment, she is more than ever committed to advancing the lives of all those she serves, making her a messenger of inspiration, innovation, and evolution.

11:15 AM – 11:30 AM: BREAK, COLLECT LUNCH

Location: Meeting Room B

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Lunch & Learn Breakout (90 min)

Meeting Room A

Retention vs Persistence (45 min)

What keeps adult learners coming back to our classes? How can we be inspired by our local peers to make creative changes and improvements? And what does Literacy Texas offer that could be of assistance?

In this dynamic and focused session on adult learner persistence, you’ll work in small groups to discuss, define, refine, and make plans for dynamic solutions you can implement immediately.

Primary Topic Area
professional development topic - staff & program management for nonprofits
Session will also cover:
professional development topic - access for everyone
professional development topic - community partnerships, collaboration
Audience
training session audience - general audience
Level
training session level - beginner
Texas AEL PD Category

Assigned by TCALL

Texas AEL PD category - PAL

Read more about the PD categories on the TCALL website.

See the full Texas AEL Guide.

Other info:

No other info available at this time.

Aguilera-Jackie-2-v2-300px

Jacqueline Aguilera

Community Liaison & Program Host, Literacy Texas

Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38 years of diverse experience across educational and non-profit sectors. With a focus on adult literacy, she has left an indelible mark on various initiatives and projects in the multi-layered field of adult literacy.

As an experienced adult education innovations designer, she earned a 2021 Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias Award for creative ed tech applications in adult education. Her service impact also extends beyond the classroom into the workforce. She empowers both employers and employees through worksite literacy training and independent consulting. She leads a local fellowship of adult education providers called the Houston Area Adult Literacy Collective (the incredible HAALC), serves on many committees, boards, and projects impacting adult learners and families, and most recently served as Project Manager for Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy.

In summary, Jacqueline’s multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing literacy and education across diverse communities and platforms. Currently on a journey through breast cancer treatment, she is more than ever committed to advancing the lives of all those she serves, making her a messenger of inspiration, innovation, and evolution.

Rooted in Resilience: Building Literacy through Optimism and Emotional Regulations (45 min)

According to the American Psychological Association “Resilience is the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or significant sources of stress, such as family and relationship problems, serious health problems or workplace and financial stressors. It means ‘bouncing back’ from difficult experiences. Research has shown that resilience is ordinary, not extraordinary. People commonly demonstrate resilience.”

Research demonstrates that cultivating positive emotions builds our resilience and resilient college students persist and are successful in college and beyond (Wilson, 2016; Seligman, 2012; Seligman et al., 2009). Research also shows that resilience practices, such as character strengths, emotional regulation, and self-efficacy can help enhance literacy development, such as writing skills and reading strategies.

In this session, we will explore how we can foster literacy resilience in our teaching and learning practices through growth mindset and asset-based thinking approaches. Specifically, we will explore strategies for creating opportunities where we prioritize positive emotions, build character strengths, practice gratitude, hunt the good stuff, and put things in perspective. Join us for a conversation rooted on resilience!

Primary Topic Area
professional development topic - access for everyone
Session will also cover:
professional development topic - family & parent literacy
professional development topic - instructional theory, methodology, research
Audience
training session audience - classroom instructors
Level
training session level -intermediate
Texas AEL PD Category

Assigned by TCALL

Texas AEL PD category - PAL

Read more about the PD categories on the TCALL website.

See the full Texas AEL Guide.

Other info:

Please be ready to participate in resilience strategies!

Cavazos, Alyssa G 300px

Alyssa G. Cavazos

Director for the Center for Teaching Excellence, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Alyssa G. Cavazos is Professor of Rhetoric, Composition, and Literacy Studies in the Department of Writing and Language Studies and Director for the Center for Teaching Excellence at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She teaches undergraduate and graduate coursework in writing studies. Her pedagogical and scholarly interests include: language difference in the teaching of writing, translingual writing across communities, professional development in higher education, and student voices in teaching and learning.

She was awarded the University of Texas System 2017 Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award, the 2017 UTRGV Excellence Award in Teaching, and the 2022 Center for Online Learning and Teaching Technology Online Teaching Award. She also serves as an active member of the University of Texas System Academy of Distinguished Teachers.

She is committed to designing learner-centered educational spaces that support students’ academic success across academic disciplines in higher education and beyond. 

Meeting Room B

Nature’s Classroom: Embracing Curiosity & Learning from the World Around Us (90 min)

Nurturing civic responsibility and igniting family literacy are essential steps in creating a lifelong love for learning.

Learning Outcomes and Objectives:

  • Explore how nature and community can enhance literacy development.
  • Advocate for the importance of reading and civic responsibility.
  • Highlight the role of families in nurturing literacy.
  • Provide practical strategies for fostering a love of learning through family engagement and outdoor exploration.

Participants will leave with:

  • Practical strategies for fostering family literacy and advocacy in their communities.
  • Tools for integrating outdoor learning experiences that encourage curiosity and literacy development.
  • Resources to help parents and families create an enriching reading environment at home.
  • Methods to incorporate civic engagement through literature and reading.
Primary Topic Area
professional development topic - advocacy, public awareness
Session will also cover:
professional development topic - civics & citizenship
professional development topic - family & parent literacy
Audience
training session audience - classroom instructors
Level
training session level -intermediate
Texas AEL PD Category

Assigned by TCALL

Texas AEL PD category - OTHER

Read more about the PD categories on the TCALL website.

See the full Texas AEL Guide.

Other info:

No other info available at this time.

Rodriguez, Karla

Karla Rodriguez

Curriculum Coordinator, CONTENTBYK

Karla Rodriguez attended the University of Texas Pan American, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. Wanting to make a difference in the field of education and in the community, Karla continued her studies and obtained a Master’s in Business Administration from UTRGV as well as completed her Principalship Certification.

Throughout her 12 years of service in education, Karla has held various leadership roles that
showcase her commitment to student and community success. Karla has served as a Teacher, Instructional Coach, and Assistant Principal. She currently serves as a District Reading Language Arts Curriculum Coordinator.

Her impact in education has been recognized at the District level by receiving the leadership “Building Capacity Award”, highlighting her ability to empower and develop the potential of those around her.

In addition to her professional and community involvement, Karla is a content creator. Through her online platform, CONTENTBYK, she shares insights, experiences, and captivating visuals that provide readers with valuable takeaways. Her content not only reflects her passion for education but also serves as an inspiration to others, encouraging them to explore the world of learning and personal growth.

1:00 PM – 1:15 PM: FAREWELL & DOOR PRIZES

Location: Auditorium

EXHIBITORS

Essential Education

DOWNLOADS

Download or print a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending the symposium.

Click here to get the flyer

Download or print a copy of the symposium program.

Click here to get the print-ready program

SPECIAL THANKS TO -

McAllen Public Library

The Texas Center for Advancement of Literacy & Learning (TCALL)

The regional symposia are funded by the Professional Development Support for Nonprofit Adult Literacy Organizations grant from the Texas Workforce Commission.

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Checked/updated: 11/18/25

Grammar, Reading, and English

by

Carroll, Kay

Author: Kay Carroll, Treasurer, Literacy Texas Board of Directors

Literacy. What did it mean to me as a student? 

Grammar, reading, and English.

Honestly, it was my most dreaded subject all the way through college (I had to pass my last English class to graduate college, and it was stressful)! Fast forward to now and all my family, friends and colleagues ask me (I’m the old version of ChatGPT) to proof and rephrase their business projects, policies, procedures, programs, trainings, resumes, and emails, due to my love of and skills in communication and writing.

In my eyes today, the definition of literacy has evolved – to reading a good book; reviewing, researching and writing business professional documents; communication and collaboration.

Though my career path has taken twists and turns that were not planned or expected, thankfully it led to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) of 1977, and it sparked my passion. I work for a bank in CRA and Community Development serving communities by ensuring all individuals and families have access to financial and essential services.

Volunteering with amazing organizations is my way of making the world a better place and giving back to the communities. During my time as a volunteer, it has brought joy and tears helping others, teaching classes and trainings around financial education from children to adult.

The truth is, making a livable wage today, providing for yourself and family, and sincerely feeling good about your ability to exist in our current daily life is a huge obstacle without the necessary skills of the Oxford Language Dictionary definition of literacy – “the ability to read and write”. That’s why Literacy Texas exists, a vital non-profit to elevate literacy across Texas and provide local non-profits the tools and resources to ensure boots on the ground in all communities whether urban or rural.

My heart breaks for moms, dads, grandparents, family and friends who don’t know what to do or where to turn during difficult times and enormous situations that arise. Having support to overcome obstacles is overlooked and undervalued today!

My grandson had difficulty learning to read, the frustration for him and his parents was crazy, tearful, and stressful. They were ignored, told he would be held back a grade (all the while making Bs on his report card, plus about a month before summer break); the school system he was in failed him and them terribly. You must be the advocate for yourself and your family members, reach out and find the correct path for you or a loved one – knowing there is light at the end of the tunnel if you don’t give up and strive for answers and help. I’m happy to say, he switched school districts (it wasn’t easy to get him accepted but his parents advocated and stood up for him) and he loves school, the teachers, and the kiddos, and his reading has improved beyond our wildest dreams in a short time; he’s exceling all the way around.

If you’re reading this and thinking, “Hey this is me or my situation,” I’m here to tell and assure you that many people care and want to give you a hand up. Lots of people around us are unsure where to go for guidance – be the guiding force, point them to a community organization, a new school, or perhaps just give an encouraging word with a smile.

“Reading is dreaming with open eyes.” ~ Anissa Trisdianty

Get Texas literacy updates

Join our mailing list so you don’t miss any news:

  • Local and national literacy news
  • Conference updates
  • Regional symposia
  • Best of Texas
  • Advocacy 
  • …more!
Click here to join the list

Adult Literacy’s Crucial Links to a Thriving Workforce

by

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

Author: Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker, Literacy Texas Executive Director

When finding a solution to a complex issue, the Literacy Texas team often looks for what we call the SMIT, which stands for the Single Most Important Thing. This strategy – brought to our team by the brilliant Kathryn Bauchelle – helps us drill down through all of the details of a challenge to get to the main problem we want to tackle.

Like many other organizations in the adult education and literacy world, we have been on a wild roller coaster ride that stems from federal funding instability. As we’ve navigated an ever-changing landscape, our team has considered the SMIT. What we’ve found is that more than anything else, we (and I mean we, collectively as Texas adult literacy providers) have to help people understand that our work is relevant and critical to the state’s future. The way to do that is to help them see the connection between the work we do with adult learners and the development of a strong, educated workforce.

You’ll see this approach in our programming this year. To clarify, we’ll continue to provide the same top-tier professional development you’ve grown to appreciate from Literacy Texas. However, when we talk about different areas of adult literacy (adult basic education, language learning, and computer and digital literacy, for example), you’ll notice that we’ll begin to explore those content areas through the lens of workforce preparation.

We’re not changing what we’re doing, necessarily. We’re just changing how we talk about what we are doing. An example might be that a class at your learning center called “Digital and Computer Literacy,” simply changes its name to become “Technology for the Workforce,” and we encourage our adult learners to consider how they could use those skills to find employment, improve performance in their jobs, or promote into a new position. We hope you’ll teach the same computer and digital skills that you were already sharing with your students but with a slightly new approach.

By centering on workforce development, adult learning programs could potentially have the opportunity to attract new students, and it also opens up more grant opportunities and innovative ways to connect with local corporate partners and employers. Ultimately, I believe this can actually be a really good shift in our work.

Change is hard, but right now, this shift is the SMIT. Without it, Literacy Texas – and other adult education and literacy organizations across our state – will struggle to remain relevant in the eyes of those who hold the power to either keep us going or cancel our future funding. Let’s work together so we can continue to elevate adult learners and support them as they reach their goals. 

Get Texas literacy updates

Join our mailing list so you don’t miss any news:

  • Local and national literacy news
  • Conference updates
  • Regional symposia
  • Best of Texas
  • Advocacy 
  • …more!
Click here to join the list

Best of Texas: Learning Differences & Disabilities

by

Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way.

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EVENT:

Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section, or simply scroll down the page.

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, October 9, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CT).

The Zoom room will open to registered attendees at 9:50 AM.

Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins.

This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy.

ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC

Students with learning differences and disabilities make up a large percentage of the adult learners we serve. Instructors in our learning centers need to know strategies for ensuring we are meeting their special needs in our classrooms.

This Best of Texas session features leaders in our field who can help us understand the best ways to approach this challenge with imagination and thoughtfulness. 

Primary Topic Area
professional development topic - learning differences & disabilities
Session will also cover:
professional development topic - access for everyone
professional development topic - instructional theory, methodology, research
Audience
training session audience - general audience
Level
training session level - beginner
Texas AEL PD Category

Assigned by TCALL

Texas AEL PD category - LIT
Texas AEL PD category - PAL
Texas AEL PD category - OTHER

Read more about the PD categories on the TCALL website.

See the full Texas AEL Guide.

Other info:

Pre-reading article – Dyslexia and Adult Literacy: The Equity Issue We Can’t Afford to Ignore

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Speights, Lara

Lara Speights
Vice President for Family Support and Adult Literacy
Neuhaus Education Center

Lara Speights, M.Ed., LDT, CALT, is a literacy advocate and researcher specializing in dyslexia therapy, with a focus on emerging bilinguals and adults (16+) with literacy below the 6th grade level.

As a parent of a child with special learning needs, she brings both professional expertise and personal experience to her advocacy for equitable access to evidence-based literacy instruction.

At Neuhaus Education Center, Lara oversees the Community Programs, which provide free services to the Greater Houston Area. Her role includes leading the Margaret H. Ley Adult Literacy program, which offers free virtual and in-person evening literacy classes for adult learners (16+) with dyslexia and related reading difficulties.

Additionally, she directs the Family Support Office, which not only delivers free community presentations on reading-related topics but also responds to numerous calls annually from family members seeking information and resources to support their children struggling with reading.

Finley, Sarah

Sarah Finley
Director of ALP
Neuhaus Education Center

Sarah Finley, M.S., LDT, CALT is a literacy educator and advocate for all learners. With twenty years of experience in education, Sarah is passionate about supporting teachers and students in developing solid foundations in literacy through evidence-based literacy instruction. She currently provides dyslexia therapy to individuals with dyslexia and other learning differences.

At Neuhaus Education Center, Sarah serves as an instructor of a young adult class and director of the Margaret H. Ley Adult Literacy program, which offers free virtual and in-person evening literacy classes for adult learners (16+) with dyslexia and related reading difficulties.

Host:

Aguilera-Jackie-2-v2-300px

Jacqueline Aguilera
Community Liaison & Program Host
Literacy Texas

Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38 years of diverse experience across educational and non-profit sectors. With a focus on adult literacy, she has left an indelible mark on various initiatives and projects in the multi-layered field of adult literacy.

As an experienced adult education innovations designer, she earned a 2021 Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias Award for creative ed tech applications in adult education. Her service impact also extends beyond the classroom into the workforce. She empowers both employers and employees through worksite literacy training and independent consulting. She leads a local fellowship of adult education providers called the Houston Area Adult Literacy Collective (the incredible HAALC), serves on many committees, boards, and projects impacting adult learners and families, and most recently served as Project Manager for Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy.

In summary, Jacqueline’s multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing literacy and education across diverse communities and platforms. Currently on a journey through breast cancer treatment, she is more than ever committed to advancing the lives of all those she serves, making her a messenger of inspiration, innovation, and evolution.

FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION

click here to register now

REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM

Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!

Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements.

PD CERTIFICATES

Participants who complete the full session will receive 1 hour of PD credit.

Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate.Surveys will be sent via email after the training, and certificates will be prepared and sent after the survey closes.

Please pay attention to the due dates – after each event is wrapped up, we will not be able to go back and re-issue your PD certificate. If you know you’ll need a certificate at a later date, please take care to request it in a timely manner!

SPECIAL THANKS

[presenter]

Neuhaus Education Center

The Texas Workforce Commission

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Checked/updated 10/10/25

The Expert Edge: Progress by Design

by

The Expert Edge: Online training on core topics that all adult and family literacy professionals should know. Stay sharp with The Expert Edge!

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

QUICK LINKS FOR THIS EXPERT EDGE SESSION:

Click on any of the links below to go straight to that section, or simply scroll down the page.

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM (CT).

Check-in for registered participants will open on Zoom at 12:50 PM. 

Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins.

This training session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy.

ABOUT THIS TOPIC

Knowing why an adult literacy student wants to improve their reading or their English can help us choose the right materials, recommend additional study, and help students make faster progress. And yet, setting goals in class can be challenging – and checking in on progress can be even harder.

In this session, participants will learn about simple yet powerful ways to approach goal-setting with adult students that incorporate plain language – and how one program transformed their understanding of goal-setting into a wider pattern of reflection for students and instructors alike.

This session will be aimed particularly at Texas community-based adult literacy organizations.

Primary Topic Area
professional development topic - instructional theory, methodology, research
Session will also cover:
professional development topic - staff & program management for nonprofits
professional development topic - volunteer support and management
Audience
training session audience - general audience
Level
training session level - beginner
Texas AEL PD Category

Assigned by TCALL

Texas AEL PD category - LIT
Texas AEL PD category - PAL
Texas AEL PD category - OTHER

Read more about the PD categories on the TCALL website.

See the full Texas AEL Guide.

Other info:

No other info available at this time.

MEET THE PRESENTER

Bauchelle, Kathryn

Kathryn Bauchelle

After moving to Houston, TX in 2008, Kathryn volunteered as an ESL tutor at Literacy Advance of Houston, then joined the staff, holding roles over the next decade in volunteer management, program direction, fund development, grant writing, program evaluation, communications, training, and marketing. As Program Director and then VP of Programs & Partnerships, Kathryn’s focus was always on the students – and how to let experience, best practices, and research guide her and the team toward constant improvement.

She helped Literacy Advance merge successfully with Memorial Assistance Ministries in 2018, and since 2019 has worked as a consultant. She has been on the Literacy Texas team since 2021.

FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION

click here to register now

REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM

Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!

Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 972-926-3155 to make arrangements.

PD CERTIFICATES

Participants who complete the full session will receive 1.5 hours of PD credit.

Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate.Surveys will be sent via email after the training, and certificates will be prepared and sent after the survey closes.

Please pay attention to the due dates – after each event is wrapped up, we will not be able to go back and re-issue your PD certificate. If you know you’ll need a certificate at a later date, please take care to request it in a timely manner!

DOWNLOADS & PRINTABLE DOCUMENTS

Download a flyer to display at your location or send to others who may be interested in attending [link whole sentence to PDF of flyer].

Downloadable PDF flyer for this training session is coming soon.

SPECIAL THANKS

The team at Literacy Advance from 2008 to 2018

[name of any sponsors or other partners – as many as relevant, new line for each]

The Texas Workforce Commission

STAY IN THE KNOW -

click here to go to the literacy texas calendar
click here to see the national literacy calendar

Or get news directly from Literacy Texas:

Last checked/updated: 10/14/25

From Reading to Reality: Turning Literacy Into Livelihood

by

This is a guest post by Southern Careers Institute, a 2025 Annual Conference sponsor.

For millions of Texans, mastering basic reading, writing, and numeracy is the first hard-won victory on the road to a better life. Roughly 4.8 million adults in the state still need some form of literacy education.

However, once adults build literacy skills, what comes next? How do newly literate Texans convert foundational skills into specialized expertise that puts food on the table?

Southern Careers Institute, a Texas-born career college with campuses from Brownsville to Austin and a growing roster of online options, exists to answer the question. Literacy opens the door to modern work, but employers hire for competence with specific tools, technologies, and regulations. SCI designs every program with that reality in mind.

Programs in healthcare, skilled trades, technology, and more embed industry vocabulary and document-heavy tasks (such as charting vital signs, interpreting wiring schematics, or troubleshooting cloud networks) into daily lab practice so that reading becomes doing.

Contextualized instruction turns comprehension into competence

Research shows that adults learn best when new information is tethered to immediate goals. SCI’s instructors, many of whom bring years of field experience, translate textbook language into job-site readiness the moment a lesson begins. In an HVAC classroom, for example, a vocabulary that includes “thermodynamics” and “refrigerant cycle” is paired with a lab assignment that requires students to read a pressure-temperature chart and adjust gauges on a live system. The reading comprehension built in earlier literacy classes now drives hands-on troubleshooting, and mistakes become teachable moments instead of barriers.

Healthcare programs follow the same pattern. Students study medical terminology one day and transcribe patient-intake notes the next, reinforcing spelling, abbreviations, and privacy regulations in real time. By weaving technical literacy into performance tasks, SCI helps adult learners internalize the specialized language employers expect without forcing them back into abstract theory alone.

Adult-friendly pacing and supports

Time and cost are chief concerns for adult learners who already juggle work and family. Most SCI programs can be completed in as little as five to fifteen months, depending on full- or part-time enrollment, so momentum from an adult-education milestone is not lost to multi-year detours.

Day and evening schedules, online formats, and career-services coaching reduce friction even further. SCI’s CareerHub job-matching tool lets students see Texas-wide openings mapped against the licenses or certifications each role requires, creating a clear line of sight from coursework to paycheck.

Employer alignment closes the skills gap

Texas businesses routinely cite a shortage of workers with soft skills and technical know-how. SCI maintains advisory boards of regional employers who preview curricula and suggest updates so that lessons stay current. Graduates are trained to sit for industry-recognized certifications and when appropriate train on advanced equipment their future supervisors already use, rather than relearning their skills from scratch on the job.

By the time an SCI student unwraps a diploma or certificate, the distance from literacy to livelihood has been reduced to a single step of applying for a new job.

Walking through the open door

Texas still has work to do before every adult reaches basic literacy, but thousands cross that threshold each year. SCI stands ready for the adults who built foundational skills, transforming the ability to read about opportunity into specialized training. For adults who have already proven they can learn, the next lesson is simple: specialized skills are within reach, and the classroom is designed for the lives they already lead.

Adults ready to take their next step towards a new career should visit scitexas.edu

Get Texas literacy updates

Join our mailing list so you don’t miss any news:

  • Local and national literacy news
  • Conference updates
  • Regional symposia
  • Best of Texas
  • Advocacy 
  • …more!
Click here to join the list