[NLA] Re: a proposal to "save" the NIFL

[Steve Bender]

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Lloyd David 
  To: nla at lists.literacytent.org 


  I agree with Andy Hartman's suggestion to give the funds back from the Reading Excellence Act since it seems this money has some how distorted the original mission of NIFL. It sound to me like a gutsy move. I have never heard of any agency giving money back and $5 million is not small change, although in the realm of big government it may well be. If nothing more it could certainly spotloight our argument about what is happening to NIFL. I think this might be something which might interest the national media.
  Lloyd David,EdD.
  President /Executive Director
  Continuing Education Institute/CEI
  108 Water Street
  Watertown, MA 02472


  I also agree with Andy Hartman's suggestion and applaud him for bringing this issue to the frontburner.  I haven't been involved with the "inside politics" of literacy policy at the national level, but imagine that a suggestion such as Andy's would not be viewed positively by the Bush administration and it's supporters.  There may well be some fallout if the National Coalition for Literacy and others really pushes this position, but nevertheless, I encourage the NCL to discuss this quickly and seriously, and hope that a decision is made to support Andy's position.

  It is so clear what direction the Bush administration wants NIFL to go...and that is not in the direction of truly in depth study and support for adult literacy.  Adult literacy is an afterthought for these folks based on their decisions so far, and if the field, as well as the national leaders from NCL, don't make a stand, we may all end up being moved further and further to the edges of the agenda in Washington. 

  I also agree with Dr. David's point that this may interest the national media.  

  Those of you who are part of the NCL leadership, please fill us in on the NLA regarding your thoughts on this matter.


  Steve Bender
  1199 Training and Upgrading Fund
  Hartford, Connecticut 
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