Workplace Literacy Class Members with Trainer: A Partnership Between Old Dominion Group and Chesterfield County Public Schools Adult Education
“What happens when adult education, workforce development, government agencies, and employers come together around a common goal? The result is more than a literacy program—it is a pathway to economic mobility, workforce success, and community impact,” write Joyce Jackson and Melinda Dart of Chesterfield County Public Schools Adult Education.
In this issue of Progress, you’ll learn how four different regional programs are approaching workplace literacy offerings and find tips for making the most of these powerful collaborations.
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Workplace Adult Education and Literacy:
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Building Career Pathways Through Strategic Partnerships
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by Joyce Jackson, M.A., and Melinda Dart, M.A.
At its core, Workplace Adult Education and Literacy is about creating opportunities through skill-building. These programs play a critical role in improving employment outcomes while providing adult learners with the tools they need for career advancement, economic mobility, and long-term stability. When Adult ELA educators meet with employers, a consistent theme emerges: limited English language proficiency and literacy skills can significantly impact productivity, communication, and workplace safety. As a result, workplace literacy is not simply an educational concern—it is a workforce development priority and an economic imperative.
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English Language Education
in the Workplace:
Lessons from Two Workplaces
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The Shenandoah Initiative for Adult Education has partnered with two local employers, Augusta Health hospital and Virginia Panel Corporation, to pilot English language education programs for their employees. After one year, we have seen clear benefits to both employers and employees.
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From Challenge to Connection:
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Bedford County’s
Workplace Spanish Program
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by Kathy Smith
When Bedford County Adult Education offered workplace literacy classes, we partnered with local businesses to teach job-related English to employees with limited English proficiency. These classes helped employees improve their communication skills and better understand workplace expectations.
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Building Partnerships, Strengthening Communities
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by Debbie Hamrick, G.C.D.F.
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In the fall of 2024, Henry Jamison shared exciting news: he was building a restaurant that would also serve as the home of a constantly growing catering business, Back 40 BBQ & Bakery. His staff would need ServSafe Food Handler and Food Protection Manager certifications.
I was happy to tell him that Franklin County Adult & Career Education could provide exactly what he needed.
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“Equipping the field of adult education and literacy with essential skills and resources to expand access to high-quality instruction and workforce preparation.”
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