Struggling with reading, writing and organization in the classroom is a phenomenon that has been around since humans organized schooling. Today, completing a high school diploma, post baccalaureate certificate and college degree is more important than ever. The American economy is quickly transitioning into one which does not provide the permanent and stable jobs that marked earlier eras. The so called “Gig Economy” of short term employment for projects, or part-time jobs, cobbled together into a full week of work is much more commonplace. Unfortunately these positions seldom carry with them job security, benefits or decent pay. These temporary jobs are in technology, retail services, office support, medical services and many other work areas.
At a recent `presentation at the Unitarian Church of Davenport Adult Forum, the founders of Performance Learning shared the social entrepreneurship mission of the firm, the learning principles and process of assisting struggling readers. Joyce Wiley, the Coordinator shared,
“Thank you for leading forum last Sunday. Your presentation was of course outstanding, and your venture is also very important. Some people said things like, ‘If that had been around when I was growing up, it would have made all the difference.’ It isn’t very often you can do something that significant. I encourage you to do your presentation to as many folks as possible. This is a very important project, and you are the right people to carry it forward.”
The teaching staff members of Performance Learning are eager to share with other groups to provide hope to learners of all ages. At this meeting, an older woman in her sixties shared that she had struggled with reading for her entire life. She wondered if she could improve her reading to better understand some of the things that she wanted read in retirement. Our message to her and everyone is, “It’s never too late to learn a new skill.”
