The Laredo College Adult Education & Literacy Department was recently awarded two grants by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) totaling over $1.3 million to offer free programs and services to residents of Webb, Zapata and Jim Hogg counties.
The college received the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) Grant for $988,025. Funded by TWC, this grant aims to enhance educational and employment outcomes for adults. The primary purposes of this grant are to improve basic skills, workforce preparation, high school equivalency, postsecondary transition, family literacy, civics education and integrated education and training.
The grant will provide instruction in basic skills such as reading, writing, mathematics, and English language proficiency.
Through its workforce preparation component, the program will prepare adults for employment by offering workforce training and career development opportunities, including career and technical training and job readiness skills.
Grant funds will assist adults in obtaining a high school equivalency diploma, such as a GED, to improve their educational qualifications and job prospects. It will also facilitate the transition of adult learners to postsecondary education or training programs, enhancing their opportunities for advanced education and higher-paying jobs.
Additionally, the Integrated English Literacy & Civics Grant was awarded for $316,537. This grant aims to help non-native English speakers improve their English proficiency while gaining knowledge about U.S. civics and workforce skills.
The grant focuses on workforce preparation integrating training with language and civics education to prepare participants for employment. It includes teaching job-specific vocabulary and skills, understanding workplace norms and obtaining industry-recognized credentials.
Community integration is another key aspect that supports participants in becoming active, informed members of their communities by teaching them how to navigate systems such as healthcare, education and public services.
“We are incredibly fortunate at Laredo College, along with our entire community, to receive these grants that will empower individuals with essential literacy and workforce skills, fostering growth and opportunity for many,” Laredo College Dean of Community Education Sandra Cortez said.
For more information about the programs offered through this funding, please contact the Adult Education and Literacy Department at
AEL_Staff@laredo.edu, (956) 721-5436 or (956) 794-4436.
