ATLANTA (February 16, 2016) | Sen. Nan Orrock (D–Atlanta) sponsored Senate Resolution 896 which proclaims February 16, 2016 as Literacy Day at the state capitol. SR 896 brings attention to adult literacy and efforts to provide learning opportunities for Georgia adults who did not receive a high school diploma.
“Today we are recognizing the devoted teachers, administrators and advocates who provide learning opportunities. We applaud the commitment of adult learners, who are seeking to better their lives for themselves, their families and our entire community,” said Sen. Orrock. “Expanding our investment in working with adult learners to address low literacy rates can have a very positive impact for Georgia families, our state economy, and for future generations in our schools and workforce,” Sen. Orrock added.
Sen. Orrock was joined by Austin Dickson, Executive Director of Literacy Action, one of the leading adult basic education nonprofits in the United States, who underscored the broad implications of many literacy initiatives available in Georgia. Mr. Dickson strongly encouraged the Senate to consider a study of the economic impacts that stem from adult low-literacy, stating, “A Georgia that works for everyone is a Georgia where everyone works.”
Advocates for Literacy Day at the Capitol met with many legislators to discuss this important issue. Their slogan — “1 in 6” – reflects that one in six adult Georgians do not have a high school diploma and cannot read at an adult level. Literacy Action, Georgia Adult Literacy Advocates, the Literary Alliance of Metro Atlanta and similar programs are working hard across Georgia to build better futures for undereducated adults by teaching literacy, life and work skills that empower them to reach their highest potential.
Literacy advocates were also joined by Sen. Jack Hill (R–Reidsville) who keynoted the opening event of the day, stressing the importance of studying and addressing the needs of low-literacy adults. Georgia’s First Lady Sandra Deal participated in Literacy Day by recognizing the Arthur Blank Foundation with the Annual Literacy Award for their investment in literacy efforts across the state. Mrs. Deal was the 2015 award recipient for her commitment to advancing literacy rates in Georgia.
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For Immediate Release:
February 17, 2016
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
Ines Owens, Sr. Communications Specialist
ines.owens@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028