I was pleased to see the supportive editorial about the Adult Education and Literacy Act (Herald, June 16), recently signed by Gov. John Hickenlooper. State funds to enhance the college and career readiness of Coloradans at the bottom of the educational ladder has been needed for decades, and it’s gratifying that our legislators took steps toward this.
However, La Plata County has more than one agency in these efforts. For more than 30 years, The Pine River Community Learning Center has worked with local learners through locations in Ignacio and Bayfield, offering services spanning a range of life-long education. We offer programs in family literacy, preparation and testing for GED diplomas, resources supporting homeschooling efforts of families, classes in employability skills and community education offerings, as well as a vibrant and growing relationship with Utah State University. With our USU connection, we offer locals the full range of educational opportunities through this recognized leader in higher education. Everything from certificate programs, associate’s degrees, baccalaureate programs or even graduate work leading to a master’s or Ph.D is available through our connection with the entire Utah State system of campuses – all from the comfort of our Bayfield and Ignacio sites – without leaving families, careers or the mountains behind.
PRCLC builds on the strengths and spirit of our students to work with our learners in achieving their personal goals, no matter their prior level of educational preparation. As the lead teacher at the Bayfield location, I have had the pleasure of working with a number of good people, each with their own path in life. Many are content to earn high school equivalency, while others further their education to make a difference in their lives. Seeing people come to us for services, complete their GED diplomas and then successfully pursue higher education is the main reason I do what I do on a daily basis. Educators know about the “psychic income” from seeing someone struggle, grow, and blossom into a capable person, a better parent and a valued employee. Working with our learners has made me very “rich,” indeed.
Robert J. Matyska, Jr.
Bayfield
