NLA Discussion: Public Policy Questions on Workplace Education

[Mulford, Ruth]

There absolutely needs to be public funding for workplace education! Perhaps
there was no public outcry because companies didn't always understand or
apply for this funding. Often, it was a third party who applied on their
behalf.

Also, company reps are often uncomfortable dealing with " basic literacy 
skills" issues and the stigma attached to them. Additionally, many companies
are not even aware of the magnitude of the literacy problem within their
companies, much less being proactive in addressing them.There needs to be a
new federal initiative that involves collaboration between business,
education and labor. It should be multi-faceted, allowing for assessment and
remediation on an on-going basis, and be part of a total workplace education
program. There should be funds included to provide appropriate staffing and
technology.Funding distribution, as much as possible, should take place at
the regional level to ensure rapid and ongoing response to the
business/individual.

Ruth Mulford
<RMulford at oswegoboces.org>