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STAND is the voice for adult learners in Students: Adult education students are improving their literacy skills, learning English, developing career skills and building their family's literacy. Taking Action Now: Developing a strong voice to improve adult education programs and increase support for them across the state. with Determination: We are determined to take it as far as we need to go for the success of RI adult learners. As an organization we encourage our members to be a part of something that would benefit our community, our children, and ourselves. STAND's Mission is to advocate for more access and better quality programs in order to improve the skills and knowledge of Rhode Island adult learners. Our Vision is that adults in Rhode Island will be empowered to seek the best educational opportunities possible in order to achieve their goals in work, family, and community. According to Rhode Island census data, there are presently over 150,000 adults in the state who either lack a high school credential, or who need to improve their English language skills or both. Of these 150,000 adults who are in need of services, 20% are at or below the poverty level. According to the Office of Adult and Career & Technical Education at Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE), there is currently funding to serve only 6,500-7,000 adult learners per year, and programs around the state have an active waiting list of close to 2,000 people.  |
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