This blog was co-written with Sharon Bonney, CEO, the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE)
In cities, towns and villages across America, adult education quietly fuels the engines of economic growth, workforce development and civic engagement. From GED preparation and English language learning to digital literacy and workforce training, adult education programs equip residents with the tools they need to thrive — and, in turn, help entire communities flourish.
In NLC’s State of the Cities 2025 report, economic development was identified as the top mayoral priority. Among the top three strategies to address economic development challenges, mayors identified business attraction/retention and workforce development. It’s clear that city leaders understand the value of a skilled, educated and empowered populace in driving local economies. Yet millions of adults across the country still lack a high school diploma, struggle with low literacy levels, or need stronger English language skills.
Adult Education Is a Local Solution
Adult education is not a fringe issue — it’s a frontline, local solution to some of our most pressing challenges, including workforce shortages, intergenerational poverty and civic disengagement. When adults gain foundational skills, they are more likely to secure employment, support their children’s learning, volunteer in their communities and contribute to the local economy. The return on investment is undeniable.
Consider this: According to COABE, for every dollar invested in adult education, a community receives $60 back in increased income, property taxes, and savings on welfare and legal systems expenses. And the benefits don’t end there: adult learners become active citizens, confident parents and reliable workers. In short, they become the neighbors, employees and leaders our cities need.
Leveraging Federal Funding
As local leaders serve as conveners to ensure investment and alignment of local adult education strategies, it is important to think about the ways that federal funds can be braided and blended with local and private funding sources to support your goals. Key federal funds to consider include:
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title II
- WIOA Title II Funds are the primary source of federal funding for state adult education programs.
- Administered by the Department of Education’s Office of Career, Technical and Adult Education (OCTAE), these funds flow to state-administered programs aimed at basic literacy skills, English language proficiency, workplace and family literacy services, preparation to secure a high school diploma and transitions to postsecondary education and training.
- These funds can be used to support eligible adults, specifically individuals with barriers to employment, including English language learners, low-income individuals and immigrants, aged 16 and older.
- Each state receives a predetermined formula allocation of funding of which the majority must be awarded to local eligible providers: public libraries, community-based organizations, correctional education programs, Local Education Agencies, community colleges, faith-based organizations and other non-profit groups providing adult education and literacy services.
Higher Education Act (HEA)
- The HEA places a focus on postsecondary education for low-income individuals through the Pell Grant program, which provides financial aid based on need.
- The recently passed One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act made key changes to Pell Grants, including expanding them to cover students enrolled in short-term (8-15 week, 150-600 hour) accredited job training programs.
Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act (Perkins V)
- Perkins V provides funding to states to support career and technical education (CTE) programs. Key program focus has been on expanding access to programs and aligning programs with local industry needs.
- States receive formula grant funds that are then allocated to local recipients based on their state plan, which is approved by the U.S. Department of Education.
- States must allocate a majority of their allocation to local educational agencies, career and technical schools, community colleges and other public or private non-profit institutions that offer CTE programs.
A Call to Action for Local Leaders
As you work to embed adult education strategies into your local economic development agenda, here are impactful steps:
- Issue a Proclamation declaring support for Adult Education and Family Literacy Week (Sept. 15–21, 2025). Proclamations elevate awareness and signal to residents and stakeholders that adult learners matter.
- Explore local funding opportunities for adult education programs. Whether through federally-funded workforce development boards, community reinvestment initiatives or innovative public-private partnerships, local investment helps sustain and scale programming that meets your community’s needs.
- Serve as a convenor with local stakeholders. City leaders maintain a unique perspective and position to bring together local stakeholders to align and leverage local strategies. Convene a meeting with local community colleges, CTE programs, employers, post-secondary institutions and community organizations to build and refine your local strategy.
Cities are stronger when all residents have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Investing in adult education is not only the right thing to do — it’s the smart thing to do.
The National Voice for Adult Education: COABE
The Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE) is the national leader advancing the field of adult education. With a membership of more than 100,000 educators, administrators and advocates, COABE represents more than 2,300 local programs that serve over 3.2 million learners each year. They support and elevate adult education through professional development, advocacy, innovation and strategic partnerships at the local, state and national levels.
Explore The New K-12 Education Toolkit
Most mayors do not directly oversee their local school districts, but they still have an important role to play in helping students succeed. City leaders can make a difference through direct support, strategic partnerships, and public advocacy. Explore the new K-12 education toolkit and learn how to support the schools in your community.
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