Advocates Walk to Rais Awareness, Funds; Preview Innovation Adult Literacy Technology, Services
The University of the District of Columbia State Education Agency, Adult Education (SEA) will lead hundreds of adult literacy advocates, supporters, and students in a public demonstration to raise awareness and funds for local SEA-supported adult education services on Saturday, October 11th during the third annual 3K 2003 Walk for Literacy.

The District ranks among the lowest in the nation for adult literacy, with over 130,000--nearly 37 percent--of the city's adults lacking a high school diploma and in need of improved literacy skills. The SEA receives little over $3 million in local and federal funds to combat this crisis, which supports less than ten percent of adults eligible for services.

The 2003 Walk for Literacy will kick off at 8:00 a.m. at TechWorld Plaza with a quick warm-up by a local fitness trainer and opening remarks from Jerry Johnson, assistant state director of the SEA. The Walk route will cover the scenic District streets of Constitution and Independence Avenues, passing the U.S. Departments of Education and Labor and returning to TechWorld Plaza.

At TechWorld Plaza, the SEA's unparalleled mobile computer classroom, the Trans-Form-Er, will be open for public tours. The 37-foot customized Winnebago houses twelve network computers and other state-of-the-art technology used for on-site adult education classes and diagnostic testing. Walkers will also be treated to information on the SEA's adult education programs and services.

Created in 2001, the Walk for Literacy raises awareness of the District's adult literacy needs. Last year's Walk raised tens of thousands of dollars for adult literacy programs funded by the SEA. The SEA supports 21 adult education programs in the District that provide GED testing, adult basic education, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), computer technology, workplace readiness skills and External Degree Diploma (EDP).

For further information on the 2003 Walk for Literacy, contact (202) 833-9771.