Literacy facts for Sonoma County
- 15% of our adult population is literate only at the most basic level.
- 18.2% of our school children are English Limited Learners.
- 28% of our schools are below State of California requirement.
- 25% of our High School Freshmen do not graduate fron High School
How does low literacy effect our population?
- Poverty - 8.8% of students live inpoverty.
- Welfare - Three out of four food stamp recipients are at the lower literacy level.
- Income - Adults at the lowest literacy level earned a median income of $240 per week and worked an average os 19 weeks per year.
- Crime - It is reported that needs for prisons are based on the number of 4th graders at the lowest level of literacy.
And
Adults at the lowest literacy levels:
- Don't interact with their children's schools.
- Don't attend public meetings.
- Don't participate in their community.
- Don't vote.
As the literacy level grows, so does self-esteem and the ability to be an interested,
active and productive member of society.
Sonoma County Literacy Coalition
Volunteer Center of Sonoma County
153 Stony Circle, Ste. 100
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Contact: Barbara Fisher
Ph: 707-573-3399 ext. 122
Fax: 707-573-3380
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