The Reader Newsletter

February 2024

Finished 2023 Strong!


The Literacy Alliance topped 900 students enrolled at the end of 2023. More growth is expected in the coming year with a continued emphasis on being open for adult learners of all levels and offering flexible locations, schedules and types of learning that meets their needs. As the only nonprofit in the community solely focused on adult education, we are here for adult learners and their opportunities to take flight. 

Students attending our newest small group class at the YMCA helped break enrollment records!

Student Celebration Scheduled!


The next Student and Volunteer Celebration will be held April 9th, from 6 pm to 8 pm at the Jessie. There is a Night with the Stars theme to recognize the achievements students made last year. Everyone is invited, and we hope you will join us!

The Practice of Andragogy


To ensure quality learning, the Literacy Alliance features instruction that aligns with the core principles of andragogy as outlined by educator and researcher, Malcolm Shepherd Knowles. One principle of andragogy is student involvement in the planning of the instruction. For example, Ms. Brown (pictured) found she enjoyed scientific notation and took the lead in planning the lesson for presentation to her GED classmates.

Volunteer Joe O'Shields teaching the first adult education class at St. Mary's Church.

New Partnerships


Access to adult education is made possible by partners that allow the Literacy Alliance to provide neighborhood based instruction throughout the community. Our newest partner is St. Mary’s Church in Springfield where basic literacy small groups have started. Thanks to dedicated volunteers Ken Horton and Joe O’Shields along with lead staff Lisa Alexander, this new partnership provides a unique opportunity for adults participating in other church activities.

Alabama Story Fundraiser


Join the Literacy Alliance, Theatre Jacksonville, San Marco Books & More, and the law firm of Delegal, Poindexter, and Underkofler in fostering awareness about access to learning by participating in a pre-showing of Alabama Story by Kenneth Jones. Donations made with reservations to attend the March 7 soft-opening will go toward the Literacy Alliance’s adult literacy programs.


Attend the performance and make a donation by registering here. See you at the show!

Jeanne Paulsen as Emily Reed in “Alabama Story” at The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis. (Photo by John Gitchoff)

Art in Culture for Black History Month


The Literacy Alliance is proud to partner with 904Ward to celebrate Black History Month with this panel discussion and Race Cards conversation. Join the event on Tuesday, February 27, by registering at the link below.


904Ward Presents: How Art Has Reflected a Culture

The Literacy Alliance is generously supported by individual donors and the following partners.

The Thomas M. and Irene B. Kirbo Charitable Foundation