[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 165 (Wednesday, September 23, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E874]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING LITERACYCNY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOHN KATKO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 23, 2020

  Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, in celebration of National Adult Education 
and Family Literacy Week, I rise today to honor LiteracyCNY. In Central 
New York, LiteracyCNY is making a tremendous impact on our community by 
working to boost literacy rates for adult students who read, write, or 
speak English below the 6th grade level.
  Founded by Ruth Colvin in 1962, for more than 70 years LiteracyCNY 
has helped thousands of adults in Onondaga County improve their 
literacy and English skills by offering free reading and writing 
instruction. However today, there's still more work to be done. 
According to the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult 
Competencies, there are approximately 60,000 adults in Onondaga County 
with limited literacy skills and English proficiency. Without these 
skills, individuals in our community are unable to fully participate as 
citizens, parents, or employees.
  In recent years, LiteracyCNY has continued to make progress, 
enrolling more than 350 students on an annual basis, with approximately 
80 percent of their students making measurable gains on standardized 
tests. Even amid the COVID-19 pandemic, LiteracyCNY has continued their 
important work. The organization adapted to changing circumstances and 
provided learners with instruction via teleconferencing.
  In addition to its work on reading and writing, LiteracyCNY provides 
students with lessons to help them thrive in their daily lives. The 
organization offers information and referrals to human and emergency 
services, and makes individuals aware of local job opportunities. 
LiteracyCNY also works to raise awareness about the issue of adult 
literacy and volunteers advocate to policymakers on behalf of their 
students in Central New York.
  Madam Speaker, as we celebrate National Adult Education and Family 
Literacy Week, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in 
honoring the contributions of LiteracyCNY. Through its work to boost 
literacy rates, this organization is helping adults in Central New York 
achieve career success, teach their children, and reach their full 
potential.

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