September is National Literacy Month

Published 8:00 am Saturday, September 10, 2016

This month is National Literacy Month, which aims to draw focus to the literacy issue our state and our nation face.

According to the governor’s office, every dollar invested in literacy programs returns $30 to the community in the form of reduced recidivism, better public health, engaged parents, and knowledgeable workers.

When we take a closer look at our economy — on every level — local, state and nationwide, literacy and job skills development cannot be overlook as it correlates to jobs growth.

According to the governor’s office, every dollar invested in literacy programs returns $30 to the community in the form of reduced recidivism, better public health, engaged parents, and knowledgeable workers.

When we take a closer look at our economy – on every level – local, state and nationwide, literacy and job skills development cannot be overlook as it correlates to jobs growth.

Today’s high school dropouts earn an average of almost $9,000 less annually than a person with a GED or high school diploma, and the wage gap only widens as education levels increase.

While the local high school dropout rate has been on a downward trajectory in recent years, still hovering in the mid-70 percent range, it should be evident to everyone that the strain of illiteracy is not just a problem for the individual but it also hinders the growth and progress of the community at-large

Low-level literacy skills not only impact the individual but they also have a significant affect on the community’s growth and development if locals are impacted. It is equally as much an individual’s issue as it is an issue for the whole community.