Read-writing over obstacles to decrease illteracy....from the U.S. to Tanzania
Literacy is, and has always been, a passion of mine. I learned how to read when I was three years old and since then, I haven't stopped :-) My father was a professor and journalist, and my mother taught school for several years until I was born. Because of them, it was not unusual to see stacks of books in our home or even in my dorm room when I went away for college. Even today, I will stop by the magazine section in the grocery store because I just love to read.
It wasn't until I entered college that I learned nearly 20% of American adults are functionally illiterate. Sounds a bit ambiguous, but in layman's terms, 1 in 5 adults in this country can barely read. Some of these folks are professionals with blue and white-collar jobs who have slipped through the cracks.
Obstacles...
There are a number of reasons why some people are illiterate, which include inadequate education at the primary level, learning disabilities or a lack of interest. Issues regarding poverty further compound this challenge, making it more difficult to learn how to read.
Suggestions
It is NEVER too late to take charge of your destiny! If you are struggling with literacy, contact a local community college or library for adult reading classes and get started now! Get your child tested if you suspect there may be learning delays and stay on top of your child's teachers and counselors regarding their progress. Do not feel scared, intimidated or embarassed. Your future depends on it!
