English proficiency is a must for any entry level position in today’s reeling economy. That is why the staff of Ashe Family Literacy is encouraging all prospective students to utilize this free program that can help those struggling with English as a second language to develop a firmer grasp of the language which could mean the difference in finding gainful employment or continuing their education in the form of obtaining high school equivalency.

Family Support Director Ann Cannon said that the program is part of the Ashe County Partnership for Children and is free of charge for those students who meet the requirements. All prospective attendees must be at least 16 years of age, an Ashe County resident, and must be an individual who is struggling to proficiently speak English.

“My feeling is that maybe there are some people out there who do not know this type of program exists that could really benefit from our services,” Cannon said. “I think it is a great program for Ashe County but isn’t being utilized as much as it could be.”

Learning English as a second language can help lead students into gainful employment or may serve as a stepping stone for those who want to obtain a GED.

“Some of the people in the ESL classroom want to speak English proficiently enough to get a job, that’s their goal. Others who want to continue on with their education can start working towards a GED when their English gets to a certain level,” Cannon said.

In addition to ESL and GED classes, the literacy program also offers the components of an Adult High School Diploma and Adult Basic Education.

The program, Cannon explained, also takes a family comprehensive approach to literacy meaning that it also offers early childhood education for the children of adult students, parenting education, and parent and child together time (PACT).

Cannon said these types of services have been proven by research to show it is successful in promoting literacy for both adults and children.

“We offer support for parents in a comfortable setting with a developmentally appropriate curriculum and environment for children,” explained Cannon. “We approach parenting information in a fun, interactive way, using activities and projects that our adult students and their children can enjoy together.”

Although children can also benefit through the program’s services, it is not required to have a child to participate in the family program.

Because the program typically follows the county schools’ schedule, classes are offered throughout most of the year with the exception of holiday vacations. Classes are held Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Transportation can be provided for parents and children if necessary.

Ashe County Partnership for Children is a non-profit organization that provides programs and services for families and children in Ashe County.

For more information on AFL of Ashe Partnership for Children, call 982-4311, ext. 227 or visit their Website at www.ashechildren.org and click on the “Family Literacy” link.