Uneducated Means Out Of Work
By Dr. Marciene Mattleman
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - In Philadelphia, over half a million adults lack the knowledge, skills, and credentials they need to get a job. They lost their jobs to changes in industry in this new, knowledge-based economy.
Over 80% of the job-seeking adults tested for basic adult literacy and math test at 5th to 7th-grade levels; but the job placement tests are at 10th-grade levels, and the entrance requirements are at 12th-grade levels.
The Mayor's Commission on Literacy is working with its partners in education, government, workforce development, and business to bring about large-scale action, helping people to learn while they earn and continue to improve their skill levels so they can rise to full entry into the knowledge economy.
A city where nearly one out of two adults functions this far below grade level does not have the requirements for good entry level jobs. To find a class, a tutor, or a mentor, contact The Mayor's Commission on Literacy at 215-686-5250.
