FREEPORT — Highland Community College and Adult Education recognize Sept. as Adult Literacy Month. The College encourages individuals to go to the library, pick up a good book, or challenge themselves to become more literate any time of year, but during Sept., Adult Education reminds the public of the importance of literacy.

“The Highland Community College Adult Education Department serves the literacy needs of adults in Northwest Illinois by offering free face-to-face and virtual classes and tutoring,” said Esther Mayer, Coordinator, Literacy and ESL Programs. “These services enable individuals to improve their basic skills in reading, writing, math, and English acquisition which results in increased self-sufficiency and involvement in the community.”

A study by the U.S. Department of Education shows that 32 million adults in the U.S. do not know how to read. One of the most important aspects of supporting adults with low literacy levels is to increase self-esteem and educate them on the benefits of improving their reading and writing.

Mayer added, “Higher literacy levels allow individuals to actively participate in their children’s education, upskill in their current employment, or transition into another career.”

Kim James, who has been an Adult Education teacher at HCC for eight years, said, “Being able to teach means I get to assist students to figure out the possibilities of their future.”

For more information on Adult Education, contact Esther Mayer at 815-599-3460 or email adulted@highland.edu.