GOVERNOR RYAN SIGNS LEGISLATION EXPANDING ADULT EDUCATION

CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed legislation to transfer the state's adult education and literacy programs from the Illinois State Board of Education to the Illinois Community College Board to further develop workforce training and employment opportunities. "Our efforts during the spring session were focused on education and employee training because these are key areas in achieving a more educated and better prepared workforce," Ryan said.

Since Illinois community colleges already provide about 70 percent of the adult education and literacy programs, this transfer will eliminate duplication of administration and reporting between the State Board of Education and the Community College Board.

House Bill 4266 shifts the administration of the adult education and the adult literacy programs from ISBE to ICCB. While the legislation does affect administration at the state level, Ryan assured local administrators that their programs will not see a change in staffing, nor in fund distribution. The transfer will not reduce the size of the program and no loss of jobs will occur.

"As we continue to invest in our citizens through increased funding and scholarship programs, we have to continue to revise the way we teach and administer our programs so that we can meet the training and educational needs of employees and employers," Ryan added. "With ICCB providing the administration, the State of Illinois will be better positioned to meet the adult education and literacy needs of individuals and employers."

Earlier this year, the Illinois Board of Higher Education, the Illinois State Board of Education and the Illinois Community College Board all voted to approve the transfer. The full transfer is expected to be complete by July 1, 2001.

Sponsors of the legislation include ;Senators Dan Cronin (R-Elmhurst), Todd Sieben (R-Geneseo), Kathleen Parker (R-Northbrook), Dick Klemm (R-Crystal Lake) and Robert Molaro (D-Chicago), and Representatives Tom Ryder (R-Jerseyville), Judy Erwin (D-Chicago), Bill Black (R-Danville) and Larry Woolard (D-Carterville).