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Best of Texas: Civics & Citizenship

July 24, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

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.

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
  • About this month’s topic
  • Guests this month
  • Online registration
  • PD Certificates
  • Special thanks

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, August 28, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CT).

The Zoom room will open 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

In 2025, the path to U.S. citizenship is shifting. This session will explore the most recent updates, policy changes, and evolving USCIS procedures impacting lawful permanent residents in Texas.

Participants will gain practical strategies to adapt their instruction, ensure curriculum compliance, and meet the needs of diverse immigrant learners. We’ll also discuss how to navigate new challenges and help students prepare not only for the naturalization test, but for active and informed civic participation.

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Garcia Alvarez, Luis

Luis García-Alvarez
President, SEDES &
Senior Community Engagement Advisor, USAHello

Luis A. García-Alvarez immigrated to the U.S. at the start of the century to pursue his dreams and enhance the lives of Hispanic immigrants. In 2008, he founded SEDES (System for Education Empowerment and Success), where he serves as President. He also serves as the Senior Community Engagement Advisor for USAHello, helping immigrants achieve financial freedom and societal development. He holds a Master’s in Human Rights and International Law.

In 2021, he received the Hispanic Heritage Award from Houston and was named MLS Community MVP for representing the Houston Dynamo. His leadership on various advisory boards reflects his dedication to a brighter future. In his essay for the Hispanic Leaders Program, he envisions the U.S. as a cultural melting pot and an opportunity to strengthen the Hispanic community.

headshot placeholder

Name
Title
XY

Info

Info

Host:

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

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

NOTE TO WEB ADMIN: Most Best of Texas sessions will not include a PD certificate, but the longer in-depth sessions currently scheduled for 3 times a year will be the exception.

Someone who completes the full session will receive X 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 in the days following the training.

SPECIAL THANKS

Luis García-Alvarez

[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 7/24/25

Tagged With: adult literacy, cbo, ceos, community, ideas, literacy programs

2025 Literacy Texas Pre-Conference

July 24, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

NEW in 2025! Pre-Conference Sessions

Join Rachel Muir and Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker for a 3-hour deep dive into specially chosen topics.

READ MORE ABOUT PRE-CONFERENCE HERE

2025 Conference Basics

Location: Embassy Suites, San Marcos, TX
Street address: 1001 E McCarty Lane, San Marcos, TX 78666

Our hashtag is #LitTX25

CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE MAIN CONFERENCE PAGE

Quick guide to the 2025 conference:

conference home page
conference theme & focus
breakout sessions
sponsors & exhibitors
registration
scholarships & grants
schedule & program
conference presenters
location & venue
pre-conference
request for proposals
take a look at recent past conferences

Checked/updated 4/9/2025

Tagged With: adult literacy, cbo, community, ideas, literacy programs, professional development, program administrators, research based, training

Best of Texas: Best Practices & Research

May 28, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

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.

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
  • About this month’s topic
  • Guests this month
  • Online registration
  • PD Certificates
  • Special thanks

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, July 17, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CT).

The Zoom room will open 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

When professional development budgets are tight, it can be difficult to help every member of your team to access quality professional development.

Join us for this session where we’ll explore innovative and creative ways to maximize learning at professional development events – with a focus on the upcoming Literacy Texas conference! – and ways to ensure the learning continues even once everyone’s back in the office.

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Bauchelle, Kathryn

Kathryn Bauchelle
Communications & Training Specialist
Literacy Texas

Kathryn has worked with Literacy Texas since mid-2021 – but before that, she directed a large volunteer-based literacy program in Houston for more than a decade.

She’ll share some ideas for helping staff report back from training and other events, along with intentional ways to share information and build staff development into regular activities.

headshot placeholder

Name
Title
XY

Info

Info

Host:

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

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

NOTE TO WEB ADMIN: Most Best of Texas sessions will not include a PD certificate, but the longer in-depth sessions currently scheduled for 3 times a year will be the exception.

Someone who completes the full session will receive X 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 in the days following the training.

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 6/24/25

Tagged With: adult literacy, cbo, ceos, community, ideas, literacy programs, research based

Coffee With Literacy Texas

May 15, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

Want to ask a question?

Need some help, or 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 Tuesday, July 8, any time between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM Central (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 sharing a cup of (virtual) coffee with you and seeing where the conversation takes us!

Click here on July 8 to join the session
  • Google Calendar
  • iCalendar
  • Outlook 365
  • Outlook Live

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 5/15/25

Tagged With: adult literacy, community, ideas, literacy programs

Best of Texas: Literacy in Corrections

April 23, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

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
  • About this month’s topic
  • Guests this month
  • Resources
  • Online registration
  • Special thanks

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, June 26, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CT).

The Zoom room will open 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

Around 75% of people currently in prison have low literacy skills (source). But when people who are in prison participate in education programs, they are 43% less likely to re-offend, compared to people who do not participate (source).

Education while in the corrections system makes a huge difference to what happens when adults leave the system. The Windham School District administers educational programs within the corrections system for the state of Texas, and prepares students to be contributing members of their communities through robust and innovative program opportunities.

Join us online and learn more!

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Our guests this month are all from the Windham School District. Windham is a school district that provides educational services to students in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The district has its headquarters in Huntsville.

Windham is one of the largest correctional education systems in the United States, providing educational programs and services in most Department of Criminal Justice facilities.

The goals of the district in educating its students are to:

  1. Reduce recidivism;
  2. Reduce the cost of confinement or imprisonment;
  3. Increase the success of former students in obtaining and maintaining employment; and
  4. Provide an incentive to students to behave in positive ways during confinement or imprisonment.
Hartman, Kristina

Kristina J. Hartman
Superintendent
Windham School District

Kristina J. Hartman has served as superintendent of Windham School District since 2019, operating 100 schools in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Superintendent Hartman’s 22-year career in education in corrections has included a variety of roles in both Florida and Texas.

Her focus areas include education in corrections policy related to terminology, identification and removal of unnecessary employment barriers, access to higher education and award of credits for prior learning, digital literacy and technology advancement. 

Ms. Hartman earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Political Science from Baylor University, Master of Arts in Special Education and Education Specialist in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida. Superintendent Hartman previously served as the President of the Council of Directors for the Correctional Education Association and is a board member for the Texas Corrections Association and Board of Governors member for the American Correctional Association.

Outside of work, Ms. Hartman enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, swimming, and attending live music events. 

O'Banion, Robert

Robert O’Banion
Chief Financial Officer
Windham School District

Robert O’Banion is the Chief Financial Officer for Windham School District.  He started working for the district in 2012 and currently oversees the areas of Information Technology, Human Resources, Operational Support and Financial Services for the entire district across Texas.

Mr. O’Banion has a bachelor’s of Agricultural Systems Management from Texas A&M University and a Masters of Business Administration from Sam Houston State University.  After college he worked in corporate America within the lumber industry before changing careers and accepting a position in 2008 with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice within their Business and Finance Division where he received experience in government finance. 

When not at work Mr. O’Banion enjoys spending time in state and national parks, working on the family ranch, and camping and backpacking adventures with his wife and daughters.

Pickett, Luann

Luann Pickett
Department Director of Instruction
Windham School District

Luann Pickett is the department director of instruction for Windham School District. She has been an integral part of Windham School District since 1990, dedicating over 35 years to fostering student success.

Throughout her tenure, Ms. Pickett has served in various roles across nine campuses district-wide, including study aide, testing specialist, teacher, assistant principal, college coordinator, campus principal and most recently, East Texas regional principal.

In every role she has held, Ms. Pickett has always demonstrated unwavering dedication to Windham. In February 2025, she was promoted to department director of instruction, overseeing the Assessment, Advisement and Records; Special Education and Federal Programs; Library Services and Professional Development departments. Ms. Pickett holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Stephen F. Austin University and a Master of Education from Sam Houston State University.

Committed to Windham’s mission of educational excellence, as regional principal, Ms. Pickett successfully cultivated a well-rounded team of principals capable of advancing within the district; three of her former principals now serve as regional principals themselves.

Dominique, Stephanie

Dr. Stephanie Dominique
Federal Programs Administrator
Windham School District

Dr. Stephanie Dominique is a seasoned education leader and lifelong learner with over 20 years of experience, primarily in special education. Her work centers on advancing equity in both educational access and leadership development. She has consistently led inclusive practices that support students with diverse learning and life experiences across public and alternative education settings.

Dr. Dominique currently serves as the Special Education and Federal Programs Administrator for Windham School District, which operates within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Since 2020, she has directed initiatives that promote compliance and equitable access to special education and Title I services for the student population.

Her academic credentials include a B.S. in Criminal Justice, a Master’s in Counseling, a second Master’s in Educational Administration, and a Ph.D. in Leadership in Educational Administration with a focus on special education and equity-driven systems change.

In addition to her leadership role, Dr. Dominique mentors youth in residential and juvenile justice placements, supporting their development of leadership, self-advocacy, and self-determination skills. Her work reflects a deep commitment to dismantling barriers and empowering marginalized individuals to reach their full potential.

Her purpose is rooted in building systems that elevate all learners and create sustainable, inclusive pathways for long-term success.

Watts, Ted

Ted Watts
Career and Technical Education Administrator
Windham School District

Ted Watts has been with Windham School District for 24 years, where he has dedicated himself to providing second chances through education. With 21 years of experience in the construction industry, including owning his own business, Mr. Watts transitioned to education in 2001 to pursue his passion for helping others. He spent 14 years as a career and technical education (CTE) teacher, sharing his industry knowledge while understanding the challenges faced by students pursuing careers in the field.

In 2014, Mr. Watts became a CTE field specialist, offering guidance to fellow educators. Then, in 2018, he was promoted to CTE department administrator. His diverse background has shaped his perspective, emphasizing the importance of skills and opportunities for success.

Mr. Watts is deeply committed to creating transformative learning experiences that empower individuals to reach their full potential.

Koonce, Ashley

Ashley Koonce
College and Career Readiness Administrator
Windham School District

Ashley Koonce joined Windham School District in March of 2022 and now serves as the College and Career Readiness Administrator.

Ms. Koonce has a diverse background spanning over 15 years in corrections, rehabilitation and education. She currently leads a team who facilitate occupational licensing efforts, assist with employer and community partner engagement and coordinate postsecondary collaboration. Ms. Koonce holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Business Administration, as well as a Master of Science in Criminal Justice all from Sam Houston State University.

Host:

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

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. 

RESOURCES

Thanks so much to the Windham team for sharing these resources!

  • PPT Presentation
  • Operating Procedures – Students With Disabilities
  • Individualized Study Guide

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.

SPECIAL THANKS

The Windham School District

[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:

Checked/updated 6/26/25

Tagged With: adult literacy, cbo, ceos, community, ideas, literacy programs

Literacy Texas Presents: ProLiteracy & New Readers Press

April 15, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

ProLiteracy provides funding, comprehensive training, professional learning, accessible research, and New Readers Press digital and print resources to unleash the power of literacy to transform lives.

ProLiteracy offers a lot of things to the literacy community, among them:

  • Resources
  • Courses and learning
  • Grants and funding

Many of these resources are free for anyone to use. ProLiteracy also offers paid membership, which includes access to additional resources and opportunities.

Do you know all the ways you and your organization could benefit from what ProLiteracy provides? If not, come along to this session and find out more. No hard sell – just an introduction to what’s on offer and time to ask your questions.

Join us online:

Thursday, May 8, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT
  • Google Calendar
  • iCalendar
  • Outlook 365
  • Outlook Live

OUR GUESTS

Smith, Michelle 300px

Michelle Smith
Sr. Membership & Program Services Manager
ProLiteracy

Michelle is an experienced non-profit leader who is currently responsible for maintaining and growing ProLiteracy’s membership program. ProLiteracy’s membership includes 1,000+ adult literacy literacy programs and organizations and 500+ individuals.

She enjoys sharing information on ProLiteracy’s many member benefits and numerous free resources. Michelle has been with ProLiteracy since February 2017.

Beeson, Ann

Ann Beeson
Independent Representative
New Readers Press

As an independent representative, Ann Beeson has worked with adult education and literacy programs in 10 states for over 24 years, presenting at state & national conferences.  She currently offers resources through New Readers Press. 

Ann has a Master’s degree in Curriculum & Instructional design from the University of Minnesota.

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 4/24/25

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

Tagged With: abe, adult literacy, community, esl, ideas, literacy programs, resources

Loving our neighbors with literacy

April 9, 2025 by Jenny Walker

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

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

Houses of worship often serve as the center of a community, providing the perfect place for language learning, adult basic education, and other academic and skill-building programs. For this reason, faith-affiliated organizations have long served as some of our most valued partners at Literacy Texas.

Last month, I had the privilege of attending the Metroplex Literacy Conference, a gathering of those working in adult and family literacy ministries in the Dallas-Fort-Worth region. Organizers invited me to serve as the keynote speaker at their event, which was held at Dallas Baptist University, and it reminded me of the calling that I believe led me into this work.

Sometime around 2019, I read a quote from Mother Teresa that said:

“I used to pray that God would feed the hungry, or do this or that, but now I pray that He will guide me to do whatever I’m supposed to do, what I can do. I used to pray for answers, but now I’m praying for strength. I used to believe that prayer changes things, but now I know that prayer changes us, and we change things.”

At the time, this quote shook me to my core. I had been walking through a valley in my life and in my career. My prayer was always, “Lord, I don’t know what you have for me, but I know it is not this. I am ready for something new when you’re ready to send me.”

He heard my prayers and sent me directly to adult literacy.

Starting a GED program at my church was a dream I had shared with my pastor long before an opportunity came up to work at the Literacy Council in Texarkana. I was thrilled at the chance to let my career also serve as a mission field for me. While I was not running a faith-based organization, I was running the organization as a woman of faith who believed that changing the world started with loving the people in my community and providing them with the resources they needed to be able to live well. It was a model I learned from reading about the ministry of Jesus.

The world around us is full of uncertainty, and there is so much in today’s headlines that can leave us feeling unsettled. However, in these times when so much is out of our control, we must cling to the things we can control like our ability to love and serve others. This is what matters the most and the best chance we have, collectively, to change the world.

Plan to join us at our next Best of Texas online session, highlighting Texas-based Faith-Affiliated literacy programs, on April 24.

Amazing things are happening in Texas!

“Best of Texas” brings local experts together to share their wisdom and experience.

find out more about this monthly series

Filed Under: Advocacy, Community, Faith, Immigrants & Refugees, Volunteers Tagged With: adult literacy, cbo, community, literacy programs, volunteers

Best of Texas: Digital Literacy

March 27, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

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
  • About this month’s topic
  • Guests this month
  • Online registration
  • Special thanks

BASIC DETAILS

This online session will be held on:

Thursday, May 22, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM (CT).

The Zoom room will open 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

Digital literacy envelops everything from the ability to access and complete job applications and medical records to connecting with friends and family on social media.

As technology rapidly evolves, many folks in Texas communities struggle to keep up. Literacy organizations are working hard to help bridge the gaps.

In this virtual event, we will hear from experts in the state who will talk about how they’re helping.  

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Frade, Ana

Ana Frade
Project Coordinator
Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy, Houston

Ana Frade is a dedicated Project Coordinator at The Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy, leveraging over a decade of experience to champion community engagement and digital inclusion. Her impactful career began at the Houston Public Library, where she spearheaded digital literacy training as a technical instructor for the BTOP – TEAL program, significantly expanding broadband access for Houstonians.
 
Driven by a passion for bridging the digital divide, Ana envisions a digitally empowered community. Her commitment to collaboration shone in her role as International Services Engagement and Outreach Coordinator at HPL, where she built impactful programs for diverse communities.
 
Recognized with the Texas Library Association Spotlight Award and the Order of Civil Merit from Spain, Ana’s ability to connect is strengthened by her diverse academic background in Engineering, Business, and Education. She is fluent in Spanish, English, and Russian.
Champion, Lauren

Lauren Champion
Digital Opportunity Coordinator
Texas Broadband Development Office

Lauren Champion became the Texas Broadband Development Opportunity Coordinator at BDO in August 2024, leveraging her extensive background in education, public service, and nonprofit leadership. She holds a Master’s in Public Service and Administration from The Bush School of Government at Texas A&M University and a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Education from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

Lauren began her career as a theatre educator, fostering creativity in her students, before transitioning to a role as a development specialist at the Texas A&M Foundation. Her work reflects a deep commitment to championing education, promoting digital opportunity, and supporting community-focused programs.

Host:

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

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. 

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SPECIAL THANKS

Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy, Houston

Texas Broadband Development Office

The Texas Workforce Commission

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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 5/22/25

Tagged With: adult literacy, cbo, ceos, community, ideas, literacy programs

Too important to ignore

March 17, 2025 by Jenny Walker

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

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

According to 2017 data from the National Center for Education Statistics, a division of the U.S. Department of Education, 17 percent of Texas adults do not have at least a high school education or equivalent – well over 3 million people.

Across Texas, there are hundreds of small non-profits, public libraries, church ministries, and other community-based organizations working with skeleton crews and shoestring budgets to support this slice of our population. These organizations are hosting bake sales and car washes so that they can buy curriculum for their programs.

This matters not only in the lives of the men and women being served by these literacy programs, but it also matters to Texas as a whole. The most recent rankings place Texas near the bottom in the country for adult literacy. Texas is below the national average in both literacy and numeracy.

Those of us working in the adult literacy field are not ok with this. Texas cannot be ok with this. It directly impacts everything in our state from our economic development to our social services.

This issue is too important to ignore.

Our organization’s main mission is to serve as a support system for the organizations working tirelessly to make a positive impact on adult basic education and other areas that fall under the literacy umbrella. Things like computer and digital literacy, financial literacy, and language learning are critically important to individuals and families in Texas.

This is a problem that is too big for any one person or organization to solve. I know there is strength in numbers, and it will take us all working together to support this effort. I welcome any opportunity to talk with individuals, organizations, and corporations about ways we can partner in this incredibly important work.

Together, we can stand strong for adult literacy in Texas.

Our theme throughout March is Focus on ABE, and we’re looking at related topics throughout the month.

Plan to join us at our next Best of Texas online session, highlighting Texas-based Adult Basic Education programs, on March 27.

Amazing things are happening in Texas!

“Best of Texas” brings local experts together to share their wisdom and experience.

find out more about this monthly series

Filed Under: Advocacy, High School Equivalency, Research & Best Practice Tagged With: abe, adult literacy, cbo, community, literacy programs

Coffee With Literacy Texas

February 26, 2025 by Kathryn Bauchelle

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

Want to ask a question?

Need some help, or 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!

Join us online on Wednesday, April 23, any time between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM Central (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 sharing a cup of (virtual) coffee with you and seeing where the conversation takes us!

Click here on April 23 to join the session
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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 4/23/25

Tagged With: adult literacy, community, ideas, literacy programs

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Literacy Texas
P.O. Box 111
Texarkana, TX 75504
903-392-9802
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  • Home
  • What We Do
    • Annual Conference
      • NEW: Pre-Conference
      • Theme & Focus
      • Breakout Sessions
      • Schedule & Program
      • Conference Presenters
      • Registration
      • Scholarships & Grants
      • Sponsors & Exhibitors
      • Location & Venue
      • Request for Proposals (RFP)
      • Past Conferences
    • Regional Symposia
    • Leadership Training
    • Best of Texas
    • The Expert Edge
    • Advocacy
      • National Adult Education & Family Literacy Week
    • Annual Survey
  • Why Literacy?
    • Defining Literacy
    • Literacy Facts
    • Literacy & the Economy
  • Calendar
    • Literacy Texas Events
    • Literacy Calendar
  • Resources
    • Nonprofit Administration
    • Program Structure
    • Classroom Instruction
    • Grants, Funding, & Rebates
    • Organizations, Groups, & Media
    • Plain Language
  • Connect
    • Find a Program
    • Ways to Give
    • Blog
    • Newsletter
    • Contact Us
  • About
    • History
    • Leadership
    • Mission
  • Impact
    • Celebrating Students
      • 2024 Student Hall of Fame
      • 2023 Student Hall of Fame
      • 2022 Student Hall of Fame
    • Celebrating Volunteers
      • 2024 Volunteer Hall of Fame
      • 2023 Volunteer Hall of Fame
      • 2022 Volunteer Hall of Fame
    • Learner Stories
    • Testimonials