[AAACE-NLA] Preparing for a possible pandemic

[David Rosen]

Colleagues,

Referring to avian flu, the commissioner of education in my state has  
issued a letter to school superintendents explaining that "it is  
critical that we prepare not only statewide but also locally and  
regionally for potential pandemic,"  ( "Schools draft plans to  
prepare for avian flu," Boston Globe http://tinyurl.com/mua2s ) The  
state Department of Education is also holding discussions about when,  
if the pandemic arrives, they should close the schools.

I wonder if states are including adult education in these  
discussions, and if we, as adult educators should be planning, too.   
For example, are adult educators creating materials for classroom  
discussions about what to do in case of an avian flu pandemic?  Are  
we helping students and teachers to get and feel comfortable with  
using home computers connected to the Internet?  Are teachers being  
trained to provide classes -- for adults and children -- online?

Is it time for adult educators, especially at the national and state  
level, to be preparing, too?

David J. Rosen
Adult Literacy Advocate
DJRosen at theworld.com