In the fall of 2008, the California Department of Education’s (CDE) Adult Education Office (AEO) approved a contract with WestEd for the development of an adult education strategic plan. Through the recommendations of both the California State Board of Education (SBE) and the U.S. Department of Education Office of Vocational and Adult Education (OVAE), the AEO is to develop a plan that addresses the critical and emerging educational and workforce needs of California’s adults.

The strategic planning process began at a Field Partnership Team in January 2009, followed by the California Adult Education Administrators Association (CAEAA) Conference that same month. Through a participatory activity with practitioners from the field, the foundation of “driving forces” and their implications for the future of adult education emerged. While the planning process was off to a strong start, February introduced the new budget that placed adult education in Tier 3 categorical funding. As a result, AE funds now go directly to the districts Adult Education’s existence instantly changed and the future became a concern for every single agency. We revisited both the structure and scope for developing the strategic plan, but through a new lens to confront the unanticipated challenges.  More than ever before, the strategic planning process is the means for mapping the future, and redefining and building a new Adult Education.

Phase One

In phase one of the strategic planning processes, WestEd conducted a high-level needs assessment focusing on national and statewide data and perspectives. The goal was to identify economic and social "driving forces" and their related implications for adult education. A number of specific activities took place over several months along with considerable research and discussion. The activities are highlighted under "Phase 1" in "Activities."

WestEd has recently completed a content analysis and synthesis of the research information gathered during the needs assessment phase. I am pleased to present this comprehensive, research-based  "Needs Assessment". We have reached far and deep to provide both qualitative and quantitative research and data which will serve to inform the planning process. The Needs Assessment will not be a static document but rather will serve as the point of departure for the planning process, to be updated and informed by ongoing inquiry and group process.

Phase Two:

The planning phase for the strategic plan begins Nov. 19th. I would like you to know that the AEO, WestEd, and members of a the workgroups and committees continue to work with one very strong goal in mind: an adult education system that merits the support and the funding of both the state legislature and the federal government. I want to personally thank the field for its contributions to the strategic planning process. We are building our future!

 

Debra G. Jones
Administrator, Adult Education Office, CA Dept. of Education