Click here to read the proclamation
SANTA FE, NM – Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has proclaimed Tuesday March 9, 2021 as Adult Education and Literacy Day in New Mexico, recognizing the contributions of adult education professionals and students across the state.
The proclamation was read by New Mexico Higher Education Department Acting Secretary Stephanie Rodriguez during the virtual Adult Education and Literacy Day event, which featured remarks from administrators, educators, and students.
“Adult education equips New Mexicans with the education and life skills they need for social mobility and economic prosperity, which is more important than ever in ensuring the wellbeing of families during these challenging times,” Acting Cabinet Secretary Stephanie Rodriguez said. “The New Mexico Higher Education Department is committed, and I am committed to supporting educational pathways for all New Mexicans in this state.”
New Mexico’s 24 adult education and literacy programs provide instruction and testing services for residents seeking to attain a High School Equivalency (HSE) credential and support adults in strengthening core literacy, numeracy, and digital skills, learn English as a second language (ESL) and civics, and prepare for college or to immediately enter a career pathway.
Adult education programs served 9,520 adult learners for the 2019-2020 program year, with 655 New Mexicans attaining a high school equivalency credential, 1,463 transitioning to higher education or vocational training, and 7,500 gaining employment after participating in the program. In FY20, students exiting adult education earned a total of $23.1 million in wages compared to the $6 million investment in adult education programs.
To learn more about adult education programs in New Mexico, visit www.hed.state.nm.us
