BREAKOUT #4
LOCATION: HERITAGE 6
Discover how family literacy thrives under WIOA to empower Texas families and build a stronger, workforce-ready generation.
About This Session
Description
As Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) programs continue to embrace the workforce-focused mandates of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), many educators wonder: where does traditional family literacy fit in? The answer is that it remains a crucial catalyst for multi-generational success.
This session will explore how we can seamlessly integrate career pathways, Integrated Education and Training (IET), and digital literacy with family-centered models. Join us to discover innovative strategies that prove workforce readiness and family empowerment are not competing goals, but powerful partners in building a stronger Texas workforce.
What we'll cover:
By the conclusion of this 60-minute session, participants will be able to:
- Reframe Family Literacy under WIOA: Understand how family-centered models naturally complement Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act mandates by building foundational employability, communication, and digital navigation skills.
- Leverage Dual-Value Strategies: Implement Integrated Education and Training (IET) frameworks and teach transferable “soft skills” (e.g., self-advocacy, time management) that empower parents as both educational champions at home and capable professionals in the workplace.
- Navigate TWC Resources: Identify specific Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) resources, funding alignments, and support programs (such as TWC Child Care Services) available to Community-Based Organizations to sustain and grow 2Gen models.
- Master the “Workforce Pitch”: Successfully translate traditional family literacy outcomes into the language of workforce development, enabling programs to effectively advocate for funding and forge stronger partnerships with Local Workforce Development Boards.
Topics & Focus
Primary Topic Area
Session will also cover:
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A note from the presenter:
Be ready to participate in small-group discussions!
Handouts & Materials
No handouts or materials available at this time.
“Name of Session” – session presentation slides (PDF)
Name of Document – lesson sample (PDF)
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Presenters
Kathy Zarate
AEL State Director
Texas Workforce Commission (TWC)
Visit TWC in the conference Exhibitor Area!
Kathy Zarate is a seasoned strategic leader with a proven track record of advancing postsecondary pathways across Texas. With over 15 years of experience, she brings deep expertise in policy implementation and cross-sector consulting.
A first-generation college graduate of Baylor University, Kathy also holds advanced degrees from St. Mary’s University (MPA, JD). Prior to joining TWC as Director of AEL, Kathy served as Managing Director of Strategic Services at MAYA Consulting, leading K12 and postsecondary initiatives for a diverse range of organizations.
At the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), she managed the impactful Texas OnCourse District Fellowship and led initiatives aimed at improving developmental education through corequisite coursework implementation.
Alexander Fones
Program Specialist
Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) – Adult Education and Literacy
Visit TWC in the conference Exhibitor Area!
Alexander Fones served as an educator in Austin-area middle and high schools for eight years before making the move to workforce. As a senior consultant at Safal Partners, he supported Department of Labor communities of practice and the National Veterans Technical Assistance Center. At MAYA Consulting, he built tools for the Texas Education Agency and strategic planning guides for Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland.
At the Texas Workforce Commission, he is tying his experiences in education and workforce to create and facilitate training and communication opportunities with the field. In addition to labeling himself a “forever teacher,” Alexander most identifies with his role as a father of two.
Breakout26 – ZARATE
Page checked or updated: 6/29/2026
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