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Second Chances Start With Compassionate Teachers

by

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

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

One of the most impactful professional development workshops I’ve ever attended was led by brain researcher Dr. Marcia Tate. In her presentation, she said,

“If students love you, they’ll do anything for you.”

With this sentiment, Dr. Tate made a strong case for the power of positive relationships in the classroom. If we, as instructors, can earn the trust and respect of the adult learners we serve, we can use that as leverage to motivate, empower, and equip our students for success.  

In the adult education and literacy field, we’re fortunate to have students with a diverse range of backgrounds, and some of those backgrounds include substance use and incarceration.

It’s not our job to decide if they’re worthy of a second chance.

It’s our job to help them begin again when they’re ready for it.  

Our organizations are stretched thin and are charged with doing an unbelievable amount of work. Even so, it’s important that the people on your team are the right fit for the students you serve. You must have people who can build positive relationships with all students.

This is why it’s infinitely important to be selective about the people you invite to join your team. There are often people with good hearts who want to serve as a tutor or volunteer, but sometimes even people with good hearts bring preconceived ideas about those carrying heavy baggage from their past.

This will impact an instructor’s ability to build positive relationships, and ultimately, it will impact the success of the students in their classroom.

When interviewing potential volunteers or staff members, it’s important to be open and honest about the kind of students they could potentially have in their class. It’s not fair to your adult learners – or to the candidate you’re interviewing – to skip those difficult, yet critical, conversations.

You can always teach instructional strategies. You can’t always teach a person how to have an open mind and an open heart.  

On Thursday, June 26, we’ll welcome a special contingent from the Windham School District – which has responsibility for all adult education for incarcerated folks across Texas – to our Best of Texas session. It’s promising to be a fascinating conversation and we’d love to have you there. Find out more and register here.

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Elevating English Proficiency through Visual Literacy

by

This is a guest post by Tara Benwell, VP of Publishing at Ellii.

You can find Ellii among the exhibitors at the 2025 Literacy Texas Annual Conference.

Visual literacy is an essential life skill that complements language learning. Emily Bryson, a graphic facility expert and guest blogger with Ellii, is a strong proponent of the power of visuals. Emily frequently reminds educators how much of the information we encounter each day comes from images, symbols, signs, and diagrams.

In English language classrooms, fostering visual literacy is key to helping students navigate and understand the world around them. Visual literacy helps learners to:

  • understand main ideas from pictures before reading
  • grasp complex processes through diagrams
  • use online platforms or apps by recognizing icons
  • stay safe by interpreting signs and symbols
  • analyze meaning, think critically, and discuss opinions
  • inspire curiosity and exploration
  • communicate creatively
  • share information effectively

Did you know that Ellii originally started as a library of images? Before it was known as ESL Library—and later, Ellii—teachers subscribed to ESL Images. While teaching English in Japan, Ellii’s founder, Ben Buckwold, relied on visuals to support his lessons. When he couldn’t find the simple, engaging imagery he needed, he created his own library. You can hear the full origin story of Ellii on this episode of The Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast.

Today, Ellii is both an LMS and a content library full of ready-made lessons, courses, and visuals to keep language learners engaged, especially in those crucial emerging levels. Ellii’s Media Gallery offers a comprehensive collection of high-quality images and videos to help teachers elicit, teach, and reinforce vocabulary and grammar structures as well as spark engagement and interaction in the classroom. And the best part? The content was created specifically for ELLs.

Here are four types of visuals Ellii suggests experimenting with to elevate English proficiency:

1. Flashcards

Over the years, countless marketing experts have tried to convince Ben that the concept of a “flashcard” is outdated. However, Ellii’s founder strongly believes in classic teaching tools, including printable lessons and images, and our friends at Cambridge University Press and Assessment (CUPA) agree. At a recent TESOL session, Ventures author Gretchen Bitterlin recommended sending flashcard sets home in an envelope to help promote family literacy.

Today’s flashcards are not just printable images. Many platforms, including Ellii, offer digital vocabulary images with audio support and gamification features to go along with digital (or printable) lessons. At Ellii, flashcards are created specifically for English learners by real illustrators who understand the importance of simple, iconic imagery. Teachers can edit the text that goes with these 5,000+ images, making them a practical tool in bilingual programs or for leveling vocabulary up or down in a multilevel setting. Teachers can even get creative and make their own conversation question sets!

Flashcard Library on Ellii

2. Photo Prompts

Why do you think the popular Ventures series starts each unit with a scene called The Big Picture? CUPA author Donna Price often pulls out these detailed image scenes during teacher training sessions to reinforce the power of an image in eliciting language. Each Big Picture scene includes a critical incident, activating students’ prior knowledge and creating opportunities for thematic discussion.

Ellii does something similar with its That’s News to Me section using real photos or videos from The Associated Press. There is also a full section of Photo Prompts that can be used for a variety of activities from vocabulary building to critical thinking. As Emily Bryson points out on the Ellii blog, “Using just one image, students are prompted to describe the photo, make predictions, research the history… explore reasons” and more.

Photo Prompts on Ellii

Language Scenes are a tried-and-true method for eliciting vocabulary and assessing grammar knowledge, helping teachers identify new students’ levels and needs at intake. For the lowest-level learners, including adults preparing for CASAS STEPS, identifying vocabulary through visuals is something emerging learners need to practice in order to demonstrate proficiency.

3. Silent Clips & Video Lessons

“Sometimes the best way to get a conversation going is to stay silent,” says Emily. Silent Clips are a great way to introduce and review tricky words, including action verbs, emotions, and workplace vocabulary.

Silent Clips on Ellii

And if you want to keep your students truly engaged, video lessons are the number one recommendation, especially in those no-phone classroom zones where students are likely craving more screen time. Over the last few years, Ellii has built up its video library to include 600+ ESL videos, reinforcing everything from grammar targets and pronunciation to life and workplace skills.

4. AI-Generated Imagery

Does AI-generated imagery have a place in ELT? While Ellii is sticking with its human illustrators and photographers for now, there are countless activities that teachers and students can do to hone their prompt-engineering skills. From creating 3D dolls to spotting AI-generated errors, the language opportunities are endless. And, as Caitlin Thomas of National Geographic Learning pointed out at TESOL 2025, “AI fluency is the new digital literacy.” Have some fun! We are!

Ellii plays with AI-generated images

What Literacy Teachers Are Saying about Ellii

"Ellii is the one resource that I recommend to every new teacher. It has a wide range of materials for different student needs. Daily, I use flashcards for my newcomers and the academic resources with my higher levels. Ellii has innovated so much in the past few years and continues to improve the resources available."
Lynn
"Ellii offers great collections to use as an additional resource for younger English learners. The Word Bank lessons can be used to enhance vocabulary and language acquisition and begin the foundations for writing. My students have thoroughly enjoyed the Phonics Stories this year, and flashcards help to facilitate great discussions! A parent of one of my students has even started using Ellii to help with everyday tasks. "
Anon

More #Love4Ellii

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: Best Practices & Research

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.

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, 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

This session will focus on [brief description of topic]. This is such a crucial topic that we have dedicated a morning to it, in place of the standard 1-hour format for Best of Texas sessions.

[session description]

GUESTS THIS MONTH

Guests to be confirmed.

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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

Registration will open soon – watch this space

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 6/19/25

Coffee With Literacy Texas

by

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

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

The opposite of “wasteful”

by

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

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

Since his election, President Trump has prioritized the need to reform wasteful spending on the federal level. Most Americans would agree that a sensible and efficient approach to spending benefits us all.  

However, the proposed “skinny budget” for FY26 calls for the complete elimination of funds for adult education (page 6).

Funding adult education and literacy is the opposite of wasteful. The truth is that an investment in our work is an investment in the future of our country and of our state. 

First, this investment helps provide an educated workforce for continued economic development.

The United States is a strong world leader in many industries, and Texas, specifically, has become home base for many leading corporations focusing on a variety of vital fields including technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and others. 

To push forward continued growth in these areas, we must have people to fill jobs and to lead innovation. Adult Education programs help people build the skills they need to join the workforce and help these companies flourish. A rise of just 1% in literacy scores leads to a 2.5% rise in labor productivity and a 1.5% rise in GDP. 

Additionally, Adult Education is an investment in the next generation. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, a division of the U.S. Department of Education, Texas ranks among the lowest states in the country for literacy, with 28 percent of adults functioning at or below a level 1 for reading (the lowest level) and 40 percent of adults functioning at or below a level 3. 

Many young students are being sent home with books to read to parents who themselves do not have adequate literacy skills. Texas has done a great job in recent years at supporting early childhood literacy programs, but active involvement of parents and caregivers is a critically important component of many of those programs. When we fail to invest in Adult Education, we leave those children without the support they need, and the low literacy cycle will perpetuate. 

One of the points the president uses to justify the elimination of this funding is the so-called “dismal” results found in Adult Education programs. What many may not realize is that there are millions of people who need our services, but Adult Education and literacy providers have been operating with skeleton crews and shoestring budgets – for decades! It’s impossible to make the kind of population-level change we need to see with even less funding than we currently receive. 

Instead of being cut, Adult Education funding should be expanded. 

“Recent causal research in Massachusetts offers a glimpse of what’s possible if AEFLA [Adult Education and Family Literacy Act] had a larger budget. Researchers were able to take advantage of the state’s waiting lists and admissions lotteries to compare the outcomes of learners who were admitted to an English language acquisition program in Framingham with those of learners who lost the lottery and were turned away.

…Researchers found that participation boosted the annual earnings of learners by 56 percent over the 10 years following their admission to the program. Participants were three times as likely to have middle-class annual earnings in the range of $60,000 to $70,000 in any year as those who were not admitted. Importantly, the increased tax revenue generated by those earning gains fully covered the costs of the program.

In other words, adult education, if adequately funded and well-implemented, can pay for itself.”

Quote from NewAmerica.org

There is a small window of time before the budget becomes official, and if you’re interested in supporting Adult Education, you can help. Literacy Texas is joining forces with the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE) and their advocacy efforts, as well as ProLiteracy, who is urging action on the same issue. We encourage you to learn more about these campaigns (COABE) (ProLiteracy) and to help us communicate the crucial importance of the continuation of Adult Education funding. 

Investing in Adult Education will pay dividends well into the future. The elimination of funding for this work will be devastating in many ways, and it will negatively impact both economic development and future generations of Texans. Lawmakers should rethink this budget proposal and include expanded funding for Adult Education.   

Please act now.

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

Best of Texas: Literacy in Corrections

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.

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, 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. 

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

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:

Thank you so much for your interest!

This event is now over.

Checked/updated 6/10/25

Literacy Texas Presents: ProLiteracy & New Readers Press

by

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

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.

Loving our neighbors with literacy

by

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

Best of Texas: Digital Literacy

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, 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. 

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

Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy, Houston

Texas Broadband Development Office

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 5/22/25

The Expert Edge: Students as Leaders

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:

Wednesday, May 7, 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 Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy.

ABOUT THIS TOPIC

Professionals often point out the importance of empowering students to have ownership in their own educational experience. However, a challenge for some adult learning instructors is knowing exactly how to facilitate that empowerment while also supporting learning outcomes.

This virtual workshop offers research-based, practical advice for helping students lead the way both in their own academic journeys and in their learning centers.  

MEET THE PRESENTER

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker

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

Someone who completes 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 in the days following the training.

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:

Last checked/updated: 5/7/25

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