MANSFIELD – Mid-Ohio Adult Education proudly joined national and statewide efforts to shine a spotlight on the importance of adult education during National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week (Sept. 14 to 20).
As part of the national advocacy effort, two Ohio Aspire programs participated in the “Flood the Hill” event in Washington, D.C., meeting with legislators to advocate for stronger support of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA).
Here in Ohio, Aspire programs across all 88 counties rallied by requesting Education Proclamations from local and state leaders.
Ohio once again led the nation, securing 40 proclamations, a dramatic increase from last year’s 14.
Locally, Mid-Ohio Adult Education Program Director Andie Karpiak-Feasel secured five proclamations, contributing to Ohio’s leadership in raising awareness about the life changing impact of adult education.
Proclamations were presented to Karpiak-Feasel by Representative Melanie Miller (House District 67), Speaker Matt Huffman (House District 78), Representative Marilyn S. John (House District 76) and Representative Riordan McClain (House District 87) from the state, the City of Ontario, Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel, the City of Mansfield, the Village of Plymouth and the City of Ashland.
To further celebrate, Mid-Ohio Adult Education staff and students participated in National Adult Education Week events at the Medina County Career Center.
Office Manager Charlene McPeek, Program Director Karpiak-Feasel and students Angela and Desiree proudly represented the program, highlighting the stories of adult learners and the opportunities education provides.
“Ohio’s Aspire programs continue to show that advocacy works,” said Andie Karpiak Feasel. “From Washington, D.C. to our local program, our educators and students are making sure that the voices of adult learners are heard loud and clear.”
Importance of advocacy in adult education
Advocacy for adult education serves several crucial purposes:
Promotes Lifelong Learning: Adults must continually adapt to new skills and knowledge to keep pace with evolving social and economic demands.
Supports Economic Growth: Workforce retraining and reskilling programs help adults remain competitive and employable in a shifting job market.
Empowers Communities: Improved literacy, digital skills and financial knowledge empower adults to make informed decisions and actively participate in civic life.
Reduces Inequality: Advocacy ensures that marginalized groups, such as immigrants, women, rural populations and people with disabilities have equitable access to educational opportunities.
Improves Health and Well-being: Studies show that adults who pursue education are more likely to make healthier lifestyle choices and support the well-being of their families.
Despite these clear benefits, adult education often receives less attention and funding than early childhood and youth programs.
Advocates are calling on policymakers, employers and communities to recognize the long term value of adult education and to increase investment in lifelong learning initiatives.
“Adult education is more than a personal achievement, it’s a social necessity,” added Kevin Kimmel, Superintendent of Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center. “By strengthening advocacy, we can ensure that every adult has the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute meaningfully to society.”
Aspire Grant: Free education for adults
The Aspire grant makes these opportunities possible by allowing Mid-Ohio Adult Education to provide programming at no cost to students.
Through this funding, adults can access free educational opportunities such as GED® preparation, the Adult Diploma Program, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and career readiness training.
Enrollment is open and flexible, ensuring that adults in our community can gain the skills they need without financial barriers.
Mid-Ohio Adult Education’s leadership not only strengthens the local community but also contributes to Ohio’s national reputation as a champion for lifelong learning and workforce development.
For more information about Mid-Ohio Adult Education and how to enroll in classes, please contact:
Mid-Ohio Adult Education
www.midohioadulteducation.com
419-521-9001
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/midohioadulteducation