[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 33 (Tuesday, March 16, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E369]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      CELEBRATING ADULT EDUCATION

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JERRY LEWIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 16, 2004

  Mr. LEWIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the 
contributions of California's 400-plus adult schools and to commemorate 
Adult Education Week, which is celebrated from March 15, 2004 through 
March 19, 2004.
  Adult education institutions provide many services. Adult schools 
provide for the unique needs of individuals from a diverse population. 
New parents can enroll in prebirth classes through a wide spectrum of 
parent education courses. Senior citizens and the disabled can 
participate in programs designed toward their special needs. Adults can 
complete their high school studies in their own time and at their own 
pace. Those seeking career changes or enhancements can enroll in the 
many vocational skills and job training programs. Additionally, adult 
schools are a primary community resource for the teaching and 
instruction of adult literacy.
  Adult schools provide a wide range of English as a second language 
and citizenship services for new arrivals to the United States. Marry 
persons eligible for citizenship often turn to paid consultants for 
assistance with the process of becoming a U.S. citizen. It is 
unfortunate that many who seek U.S. citizenship are unaware that most 
of California's adult schools offer free citizenship classes and 
citizenship consultation.
  The 41st District of California is home to a number of fine adult 
schools each offering programs designed to suit the diverse needs of 
southern California. Redlands Adult Schools utilizes the latest 
technology and offers over 600 online courses ranging from money 
management to job readiness. Alpine Adult School in Lake Arrowhead has 
helped many obtain their GED through their weekly prep classes. San 
Bernardino's Adult Schools have helped students research their heritage 
through genealogy classes and nurtured creativity through their many 
applied arts classes. Adult schools are an important and essential part 
of our communities. Their positive impact and contributions cannot be 
overstated.

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