Program Features:

• While Jackie is the only full-time coordinator for the ALC program, there are also some part-time staff members. In addition, the program has access to the comprehensive resources of the Adult Education Centre itself. Teachers, counsellors and administrative services are provided through the Centre.

• Nearly 75% of the 22 learners currently enrolled in the ALC program are male. Interestingly, half are in their 20s, while the other half are in the 45 to 60 year range. The average literacy competence is about Grade 5 or 6. All are Aboriginal.

• The Adult Education Centre operates full-time, throughout the year. This is true too of the ALC program itself; Jackie Mitchell understands that many learners like to use the Centre full-time, while some prefer to work at home and drop in at the Centre periodically. Therefore, she offers a very flexible schedule to accommodate them. She typically puts in very long hours, and even makes house calls to help learners as they study at home.

• Methodology consists of individualized tutoring supplemented with Laubach Kits and New Press Readers — both are very effective learning tools for basic literacy programs. In addition, learners gather for group work once or twice a week to discuss problems and progress. Jackie notes that there is a need to develop or enhance the existing Aboriginal curriculum, particularly for Elders who are in the program. Most Elders prefer to use English rather than Mohawk materials simply because Aboriginal materials lack cultural relevance for them.

• As a stepping stone to programs offered in the Adult Education Centre, the ALC basic program is not an accredited program. It does have affiliations with the Alternative School in Cornwall, and there has been some discussion about obtaining accreditation for the ALC.

• Half of the ALC’s funding comes from the Ontario MET. The other 50% comes directly from the Mohawk Council. In the past, NLS funding has been available and used for outreach and recruitment.