The Hidden Math of Everyday Success
Recent data from the Barbara Bush Foundation reveals a troubling trend: approximately 28% of adults aged 16-25—nearly 59 million people—read below the equivalent of a third-grade level. This alarming statistic highlights a growing crisis in adult literacy, one that has profound ripple effects across generations.
At the Manatee Literacy Council, we see firsthand how low literacy impacts families. When parents and caregivers struggle with reading, they face daily challenges—from understanding medical instructions to filling out job applications. But perhaps most concerning, they are less equipped to support their children’s literacy development, perpetuating a cycle of educational and economic hardship.
Goal Setting for English Language Learners
Recent data from the Barbara Bush Foundation reveals a troubling trend: approximately 28% of adults aged 16-25—nearly 59 million people—read below the equivalent of a third-grade level. This alarming statistic highlights a growing crisis in adult literacy, one that has profound ripple effects across generations.
At the Manatee Literacy Council, we see firsthand how low literacy impacts families. When parents and caregivers struggle with reading, they face daily challenges—from understanding medical instructions to filling out job applications. But perhaps most concerning, they are less equipped to support their children’s literacy development, perpetuating a cycle of educational and economic hardship.
Community Comes Together for MLC’s Flavors of Literacy Event
Recent data from the Barbara Bush Foundation reveals a troubling trend: approximately 28% of adults aged 16-25—nearly 59 million people—read below the equivalent of a third-grade level. This alarming statistic highlights a growing crisis in adult literacy, one that has profound ripple effects across generations.
At the Manatee Literacy Council, we see firsthand how low literacy impacts families. When parents and caregivers struggle with reading, they face daily challenges—from understanding medical instructions to filling out job applications. But perhaps most concerning, they are less equipped to support their children’s literacy development, perpetuating a cycle of educational and economic hardship.
Breaking Barriers: The Urgent Need for Adult Literacy Investment
Recent data from the Barbara Bush Foundation reveals a troubling trend: approximately 28% of adults aged 16-25—nearly 59 million people—read below the equivalent of a third-grade level. This alarming statistic highlights a growing crisis in adult literacy, one that has profound ripple effects across generations.
At the Manatee Literacy Council, we see firsthand how low literacy impacts families. When parents and caregivers struggle with reading, they face daily challenges—from understanding medical instructions to filling out job applications. But perhaps most concerning, they are less equipped to support their children’s literacy development, perpetuating a cycle of educational and economic hardship.
Education leads to Independence – Learn more about Immigration Help in Manatee County
While we do not provide immigration legal assistance, we offer free English classes and one-on-one tutoring to help adults improve their communication and literacy skills. Learning English can be an essential step toward navigating daily life, understanding legal documents, and preparing for the U.S. citizenship test.
Our programs are designed to support learners at all levels, whether they are working toward employment, further education, or simply gaining confidence in their language abilities.
The US now ranks 14th in literacy skills and 24th in numeracy skills out of 31 nations.
The Manatee Literacy Council's Call to Action In an ever-changing world, literacy remains an indispensable skill, yet recent data reveals a pressing challenge facing American adults. The **PIAAC 2022–23 data** shows that a greater percentage of American adults (aged...
Welcome Joane – New Office Administrator!
The book club is about much more than just reading. It’s a space where participants develop their language skills, build a sense of community, and engage in cultural exploration. Each book provides an opportunity for learners to practice speaking and listening, learn new language structures, and discuss complex ideas. Whether it’s analyzing characters, discussing plot twists, or exploring deep themes, the book club fosters an environment where learners can confidently practice English in a supportive setting.
Book Club for Adult ESOL Learners completes another great chapter!
The book club is about much more than just reading. It’s a space where participants develop their language skills, build a sense of community, and engage in cultural exploration. Each book provides an opportunity for learners to practice speaking and listening, learn new language structures, and discuss complex ideas. Whether it’s analyzing characters, discussing plot twists, or exploring deep themes, the book club fosters an environment where learners can confidently practice English in a supportive setting.
“Literacy is a bridge from misery to Hope”.
"Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope." Kofi Annan's "Bridges of Hope" perfectly encapsulates the mission of the Manatee Literacy Council. Just as Annan sought to connect and understand diverse cultures and nations, we strive to build bridges within our community...
Manatee Literacy Council Receives $80,000 Grant from the Bishop-Parker Foundation to Support Salaries
The Manatee Literacy Council (MLC) is proud to announce it has been awarded an $80,000 grant from the Bishop-Parker Foundation. This funding will directly support the salaries of MLC’s dedicated staff, enabling the organization to continue empowering adults in Manatee...