The Carl Sandburg College runs a family literacy program in Bushnell led by Vicky Stoneking. With her compassionate instruction and careful attention to individual adult learners, Vicky’s students are making impressive strides.

For instance, Deborah had been out of work for almost six months. She needed to develop math skills to increase her job opportunities and support her son and herself. Deborah began taking classes in many disciplines, but needed to focus specifically on her limited math skills. Vicky linked Deborah to one to one tutoring and encouraged her to remain in class as well. Deborah related well to Max, her tutor. Between her classes and the one to one tutoring,

Deborah has thrived. Her math skills jumped almost two grade levels, enabling her to find employment at the local supermarket using her math skills every day. The fact that the Bushnell program was close to Deborah’s home made it possible for her to enroll. Transportation and cost of fuel can be barriers to education. The economic outlook in rural Illinois continues to be bleak, but many adult learners, like Deborah, do find jobs.