tf87p ADULT EDUCATION IN NORTH CAROLINA N.C. Dept. of Public Instruction ®lj£ ffitbrarg afttft Htuwrattg of Nortlj (EaroIt«a (EnlUrtton nf Nortlj (Earolttttatrc CpSHH >T87c V \ ADULT EDUCATION IN NORTH CAROLINA What it is What it does How it operates 1942 The people have the right to the privilege of education, and it is the duty of the State to guard and maintain that right. — Sec. 27, Article I, Constitution of North Carolina. Religion, morality, and knowledge being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged. — Sec. 1, Article IX, Constitution of North Carolina. Publication No. 242 Adult Education IN North Carolina Prepared by J. E. Miller, Director Division of Adult Education Issued by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction Raleigh, North Carolina Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2011 with funding from Ensuring Democracy through Digital Access (NC-LSTA) http://www.archive.org/details/adulteducationin1942mill FOREWORD Much has been written in the last ten years on this relatively new and yet old phase of public education called adult education. Most of the material has been of a promotional nature, designed to familiarize agencies and organizations with the philosophy and principles underlying the movement. Material of this type was necessary and is still serving its purpose. This publication, however, is different. Rather than tell what shoidd be done, this publication tells actually what is being done. Naturally, the program is interpreted in terms of North Carolina needs. Experiences are related, accomplishments noted, prob- lems exposed, and through it all one is able to see the effect of the program in changing and rehabilitating lives. In presenting this publication, it is not our idea to convey the impression that we have perfected a program worthy of note. Instead, after experimenting five years on a $30,000 annual State appropriation, we are submitting this report as an invitation for comment and evaluation. State Superintendent of Public Instruction. September 10, 1942. ADULT EDUCATION— What It Is, By Law AN ACT TO REPEAL CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-ONE, PUBLIC LAWS OF ONE THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED NINETEEN, AND TO PROVIDE FOR A PROGRAM OF ADULT EDUCATION AS A PART OF THE STATE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM, AND TO APPROPRI- ATE THE SUM OF TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND ($25,000.00) DOLLARS ANNUALLY FOR CARRYING OUT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT. The General Assembly of North Carolina do enact: Section 1. That chapter one hundred sixty-one of the Public Laws of one thousand nine hundred nineteen, be, and the same is hereby repealed. Sec. 2. That the State Board of Education is authorized to provide rules and regulations for establishing and conducting schools to teach adults, and the said schools when provided for shall become a part of the public school system of the State and shall be conducted under the super- vision of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Sec. 3. That there is hereby appropriated annually the sum of twenty- five thousand ($25,000.00)* dollars from the general fund of the State for the purpose of carrying out the provision of this Act, and to be disbursed on vouchers issued by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Sec. 4. That all laws and clauses of laws in conflict with this Act are hereby repealed. Sec. 5. That this Act shall be in full force and effect from and after June thirtieth, one thousand nine hundred thirty-seven. 1937, c. 198. ♦Increased to $30,000 annually in 1939 under Appropriation Act. ADULT EDUCATION— What It Is, By Interpretation And Need 1. A program in reading, ivriting, and arithmetic for those people in North Carolina who have not yet acquired any skill in these fundamental procedures. — According to the 1940 Census only five states rank lower than North Carolina in the median number of school years completed by persons twenty- five years old and over. Of the 1,649,820 persons in this age group in the State 95,414 have not completed the first grade. 2. A program in advanced elementary education for the 337,639 persons twenty -five years of age and over who have com- pleted from one to four years of schooling. — About one- fourth (26.2 per cent) of our adult population have com- pleted fewer than five years of grade school. 3. A program in homemaking and parent education for all those parents who not only have had little formal education but practically no training in family living. — According to the census, 1,313,739 persons in North Carolina twenty-five years of age and over have not finished high school. This figure represents 78.8 per cent of the population in that age group. These adults are the parents who largely determine and pro- vide the environment for child development and welfare, and yet find themselves woefully inadequate in assuming these responsibilities. 4. A program of continuation education for those adults who in youth quit school or for some reason had their education cur- tailed and who now desire to continue their work and qualify for high school graduation. — The value of a high school diploma has risen consistently during the last ten years and is now generally considered a requisite to employment or any type of service. 5. A program of preparation in civilian services for North Carolina's adults tvho desire to tvork and live effectively in a nation at ivar as well as at peace. — The demands for in- struction in first aid, nutrition, practical nursing, consumer education, health, recreation, and related defense courses came with the war and yet their worth is transferable to peacetime. Preparation in certain trades and skills, how- ever, has had to be for the specific purpose of meeting war- Adult Education in North Carolina time occupational demands, and at the close of the war many of these workers will have to be retrained for whatever jobs the new order provides. This redirection of training will entail and necessitate considerable guidance. A continuous program of adult education therefore not only seems inevita- ble but necessary and logical. A program of understanding and enlightenment in civic duties and concurrent civic obligations. — It seems reasonable to conclude, after examining the educational characteristics of North Carolina's adult population, that many voters are not functional citizens. Knowing the organization and services of local, State, and federal government is basic to constructive participation in organized society. The desire to know the truth in current public affairs is almost a matter of general curiosity ; to provide opportunity for learning about government and discussing public affairs under compe- tent leadership — that is a function of adult education. A program providing an opportunity for the so-called edu- cated to continue their study. — It is a natural inclination for an educated person to "go on learning" and adult education is called upon to provide the means for that learning. In most states now adult education is being interpreted in this broader sense : Any type of education for any type of adult. Experience in North Carolina is proving that a program for illiterates is more successful when accompanied by a program for the more fortunate. The tendency to copy or do as your neighbor is instinctive; if the literate attend adult classes, the illterate likewise attend. A program enabling parents to go along with their children in the educational process. — An educated parent is an asset to the State and an ally to childhood education. Adult Education in North Carolina UNITED STATES OF AMERICA MEDIAN SCHOOL YEARS COMPLETED BY PERSONS 25 YEARS OLD AND OVER ACCORDING TO THE 1940 CENSUS Rank STATE Years Rank STATE Years 1 10.3 10.2 9.9 9.6 9.2 9.1 9.1 9.0 8.9 8.9 S.9 8.8 8.8 8.7 8.7 8.7 8.7 8.6 8.6 8.6 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 *44 45 46 47 48 49 8.5 2 Utah 8.5 3 New Jersey . New York . . Oklahoma.. . ... 8.4 4 8.4 5 8.4 6 8.3 7 8.3 8 8.3 9 Rhode Island.. .. 8.3 10 8.3 11 8.2 12 8.0 13 New Mexico 7.9 14 7.8 15 7.7 16 7.7 17 7.7 18 7.5 19 7.4 20 Ohio 7.1 21 7.1 22 7.1 23 6.7 24 6.6 25 Median for the United States 8.4. The median year of school completed is that year which divides the population into two equal groups — one-half having had more formal education, and the other half having had less, than the median. 10 Adult Education in North Carolina PERSONS 2 5 YEARS OLD AND OVER BY YEARS OF SCHOOL COM- PLETED, FOR THE STATE, URBAN AND RURAL: 1940 Number Per Cent Years of School Completed The State Urban Rural- nonfarm Rural- farm The State Urban Rural- nonfarm Rural- farm Persons 25 years old and over._ 1,649,820 519,536 442,904 687,380 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 No. school years completed Grade school: 1 to 4 years 5 and 6 years 7 and 8 years.. .. High school: 1 to 3 years 4 years. College: 1 to 3 years ... 4 years or more 95,414 337,639 309,347 344,891 226,448 152,816 88,864 67,036 27,365 22,171 80,547 79,905 93,178 76,750 74,528 46,811 38,356 7,290 24,770 85,552 81,728 90,281 66,071 41,776 25,287 20,557 6,882 48,473 171,540 147,714 161,432 83,627 36,512 16,766 8,123 13,193 5.8 20.5 18.8 20.0 13.7 9.3 5.4 4.1 1.7 4.3 15.5 15.4 17.9 14.8 14.3 9.0 7.4 1.4 5.6 19.3 18.5 20.4 14.9 9.4 5.7 4.6 1.6 7.1 25.0 21.5 23.5 12.2 5.3 2.4 1.2 1.9 The median number of school years completed by persons 25 years old and over was 7.4, the equivalent of more than seven grades. (The median year of school completed is that year which divides the population into two equal groups — one-half having had more formal education, and one-half having had less, than the median.) About one-fourth (26.2 per cent) had com- pleted fewer than 5 years of grade school. At the other extreme, 9.5 per cent had completed at least one year of college, and 4.1 per cent reported four or more years of college. Data on the number of years of school completed were obtained in the census for the first time in 1940 and take the place of the data on illiteracy which have appeared in the reports of earlier censuses. Adult Education in North Carolina 11 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA PERSONS 25 YEARS OLD AND OVER BY YEARS OF SCHOOL COM- PLETED, BY COUNTIES, MALE AND FEMALE: 1940 CENSUS COUNTY Male Female COUNTY Male Female COUNTY Male Female 7.6 7.0 7.6 6.2 6.7 7.0 6.2 5.8 6.3 6.0 8.5 6.7 7.4 7.0 6.4 7.2 5.5 7.9 7.2 7.2 6.1 7.1 7.0 6.4 6.5 7.6 5.5 7.2 7.3 7.0 6.4 7.6 5.8 7.6 7.8 7.1 7.6 7.1 7.0 7.0 6.9 6.9 7.3 6.7 9.2 7.1 7.7 7.3 7.1 7.9 6.7 8.1 7.7 7.4 7.1 7.3 7.4 7.1 7.3 7.8 6.6 7.4 7.6 7.5 7.5 8.0 6.7 7.9 Franklin 6.0 6.8 6.1 6.0 6.1 5.4 8.2 5.4 6.6 7.5 8.0 5.8 5.5 6.8 7.7 6.9 6.4 6.1 7.2 6.2 7.1 6.8 7.0 6.4 6.1 8.8 6.8 7.1 7.5 6.1 8.1 5.0 6.1 7.1 7.0 7.6 6.3 7.5 6.6 8.6 6.4 7.3 8.0 8.5 7.5 6.6 7.4 8.1 7.3 7.0 7.1 7.9 7.2 7.5 7.2 7.5 7.1 7.0 9.0 6.8 7.5 8.2 7.0 8.5 6.5 6.9 7.5 6.8 7.1 6.5 5.7 6.3 6.3 6.8 7.6 6.9 6.2 6.7 7.8 7.1 6.8 5.4 7.3 6.6 6.9 6.6 7.9 6.5 7.4 6.4 8.2 8.1 6.5 7.1 6.1 6.8 6.0 7.2 6.3 8.1 Pamlico . . Pasquotank Pender _ Perquimans Person ._ Pitt 7.4 Alleghany.. Anson . Ashe . Avery . Gates Graham Granville. Greene. Guilford Halifax 7.8 7.2 6.9 7.2 7.2 Polk 7.8 Randolph Richmond. Robeson Rockingham Rowan. . . Rutherford... Sampson Scotland .. 7.9 Brunswick. ... _. Buncombe.. . Burke. . Haywood Henderson ... . Hertford Hoke 7.3 7.0 7.3 8.1 Caldwell Hyde 7.3 7.7 6.2 Johnston. Jones 7.5 7.2 7.3 6.9 Transylvania Tyrrell 8.5 Clay McDowell 6.9 7.9 Madison 7.3 Wake 9.0 Cumberland Mecklenburg Mitchell Warren Washington. . Watauga. . _ 7.3 7.3 Montgomery 7.6 7.1 Wilkes 7.0 Duplin. . .. New Hanover Northampton 6.8 7.4 Yancey . 6.8 Forsyth In North Carolina the median number of school years completed by persons 25 years old and over was 7.4, the equivalent of more than seven grades. In the United States the median is 8.4, the equivalent of more than eight grades. How does your county compare? ADULT EDUCATION— What It Does part l: report from the state Office Just what adult education does in a typical year on a $30,000 State appropriation is recorded in the statistical and narrative reports on the following pages. One table shows by adminis- trative units the total enrollment in various types of instruction for the 1941-42 year. Another table gives the qualifications of adult education teachers on the basis of certification for that same year. A map showing the location of adult programs is also included as a means of presenting the scope of the work. As a quick means of noting the growth of the program, the following figures are given: Year Number Teachers Number Students 1937-38 97 4,044 1938-39 89 6,074 1939-40 106 6,926 1940-41 101 7,573 1941-42 125 11,227 Not included in the above figures are the persons who participated in public forums. A separate section is devoted to forum activities. 14 Adult Education in North Carolina SUMMARY— STATE AID ADULT EDUCATION, 1941-42- -TOTAL Administrative Unit a o .2 ft o a ft < 53 -a v CJS -1 ~B *= fe a -0'.5 z; ft 5 1 7 4 5 7 13 1 5 4 11 3 8 3 1 25 7 1 13 1 125 eg o C3 < 216 2 S 125 a 'n 1 o o m "bo H m 63 a ft 3 ffl Q o -O O o J3 o T3 C w n' 3 •3th •a -3 c u •-3 S 3 315 a Q o ta 3 ■a 3 >> * S || 3s o o a -o Buncombe County and Asheville $ 2,000.00 306 468 Burke County ,. ._ .. 500.00 Charlotte... 1,175.00 10 35 33 .... 8 ..__ 14 Cleveland Co., Shelby, and 1,299.38 40 14 48 Durham County 1,700.00 15 .... 244 Durham City . 2,000.00 254 Gaston Co., Gastonia, and Cherry ville . 2,000.00 539 272 600.00 27 Greensboro 990.00 46 88 106 Guilford County ... _ 1,000.00 73 16 85 High Point 990.00 45 17 21 1,500.00 84 1,900.00 14 64 13 13 800.00 5 — - 52 500.00 33 2,166.50 52 1305 1,000.00 108 400.00 1,500.00 40 89 250.00 25 Total $ 24,270.88 433 189 40 98 33 14 355 13 1,736 193 2,336 Adult Education in North Carolina 15 ENROLLMENT, BY UNITS, IN VARIOUS TYPES OF INSTRUCTION a '5 ■a S3 o 3 -a < s a o o -c M o 15 1 I o w 'S 3 "o o 3 3 c o Is 3 W u Ah S a Ph a o Is Pntxq -3 3 * 3 ll a a a o. CO 2 3 -o a J3 J= co 'S CS o. CO blj 'S, >, Total 201 35S 31 56 62 76 2,277 79 79 46 22 998 34 1,200 129 317 548 84 40 11 12 406 16 270 73 99 983 20 20 67 54 96 81 32 37 — - 540 32 150 20 23 399 20 60 240 21 75 34 -— 45 578 104 188 52 277 18 ____ 27 478 109 38 626 830 33 30 122 38 27 73 1,647 50 127 285 93 93 23 22 30 40 45 289 12 37 20 201 109 1,321 22 101 416 271 847 21 105 1,812 34 165 109 233 11,227 16 Adult Education in Noeth Carolina CERTIFICATION OF STATE AID ADULT EDUCATION TEACHERS EMPLOYED, 1941-42 Type of Certificate White Teachers Colored Teachers Total Both Races EXPLANATION G8— 1 1 22 7 4 3 4 4 7 6 7 8 3 1 1 2 1 1 1 26 9 6 3 4 4 7 8 11 11 3 1 1 2 1 G7 A9 A8 A7 A6 4 2 2 (2) From observations of successful programs of adult education, high certification, while de- A5 A4 A3 A2 Al AO B6 2 4 3 who are interested in people and their develop- ment, usually make good adult education teachers. B5 B4 B3 B2 Bl. BO 3 5 3 5 C4 C3 C2 CI CO E1A2._ 1 1 El Al El AO 1 1 El BO 2Co 15 1 16 Total 107 18 125 Full Time... -. 25 5 30 Part Time . 82 13 95 Adult Education in North Carolina 17 00 ■H 1 03 rH a) *3 =5 .d ■P T3 ADULT EDUCATION— What It Does PART II: REPORTS FROM LOCAL UNIT DIRECTORS Just what adult education is doing is given in the following reports from local unit directors. These narrative statements give not only information on local organization and activities but also contain human interest stories reflecting the influence of the program on individuals and communities. BUNCOMBE COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOLS Thirty "beginners" have been reached through the Buncombe County- Adult Education Program during 19 41-42. This practice of teaching at least one class of illiterates each year is in conformity with the policy of the Community Schools during the past two decades. Fourteen of this number have been taught and advanced to at least second grade level and others have been advanced still further. This group includes "rejected selectees" who have completed "Workbook For Army Use — First Days in The Army" and are continuing study during the vacation period, in prepa- ration for work in the fall. One student in arithmetic, a janitor in a county school, says "I always knew there was a way to set down numbers and FIGGER 'em, and you don't know what it means to be able to do it." A mother, who had learned to read and write for the first time, proudly signing her name, says "Why, it's the grandest thing — I can write my name so easy people don't know I've just learned." She recently received a letter from her son, who is serving his country, and now she says "I can write him a letter all by myself and feel closer to him — straight from my own hands to him." Still another student signed her sugar ration card and experienced real joy in signing her name "before them people." Probably the greatest thrill came to the teacher when another student said "I'm not ashamed to go to Sunday School now, because I can read my Bible." In addition to the work with illiterates, business English, typing and related subjects taught by a staff member proved most popular during the current year, with a total enrollment of 53 students. The Craft Center, under the sponsorship of Community Schools, in cooperation with the State Vocational Division of the State Department of Public Instruction, has met a real need in training for both the leisure- time group and those interested in increasing their skills as a means of a, livelihood. In order to gear our entire program to the War Effort, new phases such as first aid and nutrition have received special emphasis this year. One staff member has taught nine classes in standard first aid, with 20 5 stu- dents successfully passing the required examinations. Adult Education in North Carolina 19 At the request of State Aid and State WPA Officials very close coop- eration has been maintained with teachers assigned to the National Citizen- ship Education Program. This project is designed to offer to aliens the instruction necessary for naturalization. Wherever possible materials have been furnished and counsel and advice given. As a result of this work, fourteen aliens have received their citizenship papers. The re-organization of the Advisory Committee has greatly strengthened the local program and assisted in more thorough interpretation to the public. At the beginning of the school year a "New Citizens Club" was organized including newly naturalized and young citizens who had just reached the age of majority. This group observed "Bill of Rights Day" on December 15, as set aside by Presidential Proclamation, by inviting a judge of the Superior Court to speak to them on "Trial by Jury," one of the privileges enjoyed under the Bill of Rights. In cooperation with the Asheville Lions Club, civic leaders, education officials, and patriotic organizations, proper observance of "I Am An American Day" was observed on May 17. Certificates of Citizenship were awarded to thirty-six new twenty-one-year-old citizens and forty-seven newly naturalized citizens were recognized. This ceremony was held in the County Court House and attended by 150 persons. — Mrs. H. G. Etheridge, Director. BURKE COUNTY The value of adult education in Burke County is best measured in the happiness and satisfaction it has brought to hundreds of students. Never was happiness greater than that of an aged Negro woman who worked eagerly in an elementary class for what she called her "diplooma." Often she remarked that she was afraid she would not be able to finish her work before she entered the Pearly Gates and would be forced to admit to St. Peter in great embarrassment that she did not have a "diplooma." But despite her advanced age — she was in her seventies — she completed the course, received her certificate and went on to continue her work in the upper grades. A real diploma became a mighty important thing to two young mothers who had left high school before graduating to get married. Securing the cooperation of the high school principal, an adult education teacher ar- ranged for them to complete their work and to receive their diplomas with the senior class. Thus was realized an ambition which had come late to the mothers of two newly established families. No greater satisfaction has come to any group than those eager to learn to read the Bible, a desire which impelled a majority of students in ele- mentary classes. And for the teacher, there was something spiritually warming to hear middle-aged men and women stand before a Kiwanis Club and speak of the joys which came to them upon being able to read with their own eyes the words of Him who sought for all a richer and more abundant life. Many such instances could be cited in Burke County, which was among the first counties in North Carolina to have the State Aid Adult Education Program. 20 Adult Education in North Carolina In the past two years three community schools were conducted at scattered points in the county, offering six weeks of instruction in first aid, parent education, elementary education, and music. Meeting in public schools in rural communities, these schools had an excellent attendance. For Negroes, an adult education center was maintained with two teachers. Although many persons have been taught to read and write who never had the chance to learn or who failed to take advantage of their opportunities, the work has by no means been confined to illiterates. Young housekeepers have eagerly joined adult education classes to learn something about cooking and sewing, while many older housekeepers, tired of the same old routine of meal-planning and preparation, came asking to be taught new ways to cook foods on hand or how to prepare pretty salads which had caught their eye in magazines. Selective Service has brought the nation face to face with the problem of illiteracy among young men of draft age. In Burke County, a large number of rejected draftees have been enrolled in classes, and many more could have been helped if they could have been prevailed upon to join classes organized for their benefit. The President has announced that an extensive drive will be made to reach such illiterates of draft age, but adult education leaders in Burke County concur with the State Director in the belief that unless these men can be forced to enroll in these classes or can be taken into camps where instruction will be a part of the pro- gram, a campaign in their behalf will be a failure. — Mrs. Mary Lou Gully, Director. CHARLOTTE Realizing the need for home nursing information, the Red Cross was asked to cooperate in setting up classes in home nursing. Two teachers announced the time and place of their meetings and were literally swamped with applicants. Four six-weeks courses were given and 998 women were taught the essentials of home care of the sick as well as prevention and cure of common ailments and emergencies. Partly as a result of these courses a refresher course was offered by a local hospital. Red Cross representatives from near-by cities and towns attended this class and took back to their local communities the outline used in the instruction. At the D. H. Hill Business Training School, which is operated jointly with WPA, classes in shorthand, typing, bookkeeping, dictation, business spelling, and English are offered. This school has been very successful this year, having at present an enrollment of over one hundred. Some of the students are employed, others have part-time employment and a large group is composed of beginners. Many students have taken civil service examinations and are now employed in Washington as well as locally. A very cooperative spirit exists between this school and the North Carolina Employment Agency; it sends us students and then finds employment for those ready to work. The lip reading class has also had a successful year. In this class the hard-of-hearing are taught to read lips and many of them are then able to go to work in offices. One stenographer, who had to stop her work be- cause of sudden deafness, is now back on her same job, able to carry on as Adult Education in North Carolina 21 efficiently as ever. Business men and women are students and are being greatly benefitted by the classes. A lady whose husband died, leaving her with a large family of small children to support, was unable to secure employment because of her deafness. Learning of this class, she attended and is now operating a large boarding house and making a comfortable income. A farmer, dependent on the sale of produce for a living, was partially deaf following an illness. Through instruction he was able to continue his sale of produce. These are just a few of the handicapped who are helped through this school. Colored classes include literacy and citizenship. Listening in on a group recently, the director heard a fine panel discussion on "Why We Pay Taxes and What We Get in Return." They also discussed cooperation with other agencies, victory gardens, budget making, buying, and even the two big labor organizations. The teacher is a lawyer Avho is a member of the executive board of the colored YMCA and an ardent believer in adult education. — Mrs. Julia Sledge, Director. CLEVELAND COUNTY In promoting travel as a worthy use of leisure time, the Cleveland County Adult Education Program offers one phase of study probably found nowhere else in the State. Recently 2 members of the Lily Mill Woman's Club, accompanied by their leader, made a trip to Washington, D. C, visiting many places of historic and current interest along the way. All expenses of the trip were paid with money earned by the women as a Club project. Another group, with their leader, had an enjoyable outing through the Smoky Mountains with money made from giving suppers and plays. This same group plans to spend a week-end at Penland Institute in the near future and while there take a few lessons in handicraft. They will go by train and most of the expenses will be paid out of the Club treasury. Perhaps the outstanding achievement of the year for the Lily Mill Club was the completion of its new club house costing $3,500. It was paid for by mill officials, is of brick construction, modern in every design, and equipped with every electrical appliance needed. The assembly room is a thing of beauty, while there are three sewing machines in the work room for use by the members, as well as a modern kitchen for use as a food laboratory. The Dover-Ora and Esther Clubs had been promised new club houses by the mill management, but plans were halted temporarily by war condi- tions. These women, nevertheless, have put on some very fine cooking demonstrations and enjoy working together. This year they have had a garden tour, a cooking school, and two flower shows. These were all well attended. Large classes in first aid have been held in each of the study centers. There have also been classes in practical nursing, taught by a Red Cross nurse. Quite a lot of Red Cross sewing and knitting has been done by the women during the past twelve months. All the mill villages, where there is a State Aid teacher, have shown much interest in yard improvement. The yards are graded four times 22 Adult Education in North Carolina during the year and prizes are given by mill officials for best yards, for most improvement over last year, and to all who made an average grade of 75 or above. Most yards have beautiful shrubbery, trees, and grass. At the side or back there is usually a rose garden. Some mill homes have very attractive out-door living rooms, while a few have wild flower or rock gardens. Victory gardens have been stressed so much this year that most homes boast a very fine vegetable garden. Results from a home and school cooperation plan during the past session were very gratifying. Regular visits were made to schools and the teachers seemed to appreciate the effort put forth in behalf of school attendance and parent education. All cases of truancy were speedily reported and visited. Many children, above school age, who had dropped out were advised and assisted in returning to school. Parents were en- couraged to attend special programs given by schools as well as P. T. A. meetings. Much work was done among the underprivileged. In many cases the P. T. A., Welfare Department, Red Cross, mill officials, and teachers came to the rescue. Expectant mothers as well as mothers with small children were given leaflets on child care. Layettes were furnished when needed by the Welfare Department or local Red Cross. In one of the rural sections, a needy mother had been promised a layette. Materials were paid for by the Red Cross and a home economics class did the sewing. Every garment was finished, pressed, and taken to the home just the day before the baby's arrival. That mother was most grateful; those who had assisted in assembling the layette had had a very valuable experience in social service. — Mrs. Alma Hamrick, Director. DURHAM Adult education has just completed its fourth year in the city of Durham and is now recognized as an integral part of the city school system. The attendance was good for the entire year and interest greater than in any preceding year. The days of "recruiting" students are over; those who wish to enroll voluntarily come to the school, tell the teachers what they want to learn, and are placed in the proper class. Most of the work done has been in illiteracy, because of the great need for such work in Durham. Boys have been helped to qualify for the armed services. Several mothers have learned to write well enough to correspond with their sons in the army. Two women, both over 50 years, learned to read and write exceptionally well, and by so doing proved to be quite an inspiration to younger members of the class. The teachers take a personal interest in their students and try to under- stand all the circumstances surrounding each. It is interesting to notice the boost which is given to the morale of those who previously knew nothing and now because of a teacher's interest have learned to read and write. In Durham many discouraged and depressed men and women have come to the school and been rehabilitated. During the school year provision is made for classes to get together and become acquainted. At Christmas time, plays are given. Each class pre- pares its own program and presents it to the others. Also on Valentine Adult Education in North Carolina 23 day a party is given. Games are played and the homemaking class pre- pares the refreshments. Supt. W. F. Warren, of the city schools, visited the classes this year and took pictures of the various groups at work. These pictures were shown as a feature of the commencement program. Upon the completion of the year's work each person was presented a certificate stating that he had completed a certain grade. Regular com- mencement exercises were held with Mr. J. E. Miller, the State Director, and Mr. W. P. Warren speaking to the groups.— Mrs. A. F. Keller, Director. DURHAM COUNTY As a result of the war, new phases and types of adult education have been offered in Durham County. Women wanted to contribute their services to the Red Cross, but were unable to do so on account of distance, time, duties on the farm, and home ties. Sensing this situation, the adult education teachers made arrangements for taking materials from the Red Cross room to the class meetings where a part of each class hour was devoted to the making of pajamas for the soldiers or to patching quilt squares for war relief. The percentage of attendance was increased, many outsiders came to help, and a general spirit of enthusiasm was prevalent. Other groups studied nutrition, health, and home safety as means for assisting in national defense. Current events were discussed in groups. The women who lived near Camp Butner showed especial interest in nutrition with reference to balanced diet, because they anticipated keeping boarders during the summer. Notebooks with charts and menus were kept. On one occasion the following illustration came to the writer's attention: An adult education student (unaware of being noticed) was purchasing her week's groceries from an approved list of balanced foods, which she had studied on preparing her meals for the next week. Her circumstances were very limited, but her selection was very rich in vitamin and calory content. The three "Rs" have always been the foundation of Durham County's adult education program. During the present crisis more need for reading and writing has been apparent than formerly. Mothers yearn to write letters to their sons in the service and to read their letters in return. Correspondence of this type has been encouraged largely by the teachers. Because of the increased prices in living conditions, housewives feel the need of making closer calculations in selecting and buying food and clothes. A member of a class who studied fractions said "I can count now so much faster than my husband that he wants me to do all the buying." In several instances husbands have become interested and joined the arithmetic group. Homemaking classes during the past year served to train housekeepers in the art of making the most useful things for a home in the most eco- nomical way. Bed spreads of looper clips were made. Dresses, aprons and table cloths were made of sacks which were dyed and embroidered. Large garments were cut and made over for the smaller children. Orderly arrangements of furniture was taught, also color combination and flower designing. 24 Adult Education in North Carolina As a result of the commercial work at the Salvation Army Home, several girls have secured employment in the State. In the same institution high school students continued their courses under the supervision of adult teachers, receiving their report cards and maintaining the same scholastic status as the public school offers. Graduation exercises were held recently with County Superintendent Luther H. Barbour officiating. Three students were awarded State High School Diplomas. Three undergraduates were given War Savings Stamps for being outstanding in attitude and scholar- ship. — Mrs. Irene J. Manning, Director. GASTON COUNTY The Gaston County Unit has had a successful year in adult education due to specific objectives and well-trained personnel. Eleven teachers, most of them working on a part-time basis, have conducted classes in elementary education, homemaking, family life education, and first aid. Nearly a thousand adults enrolled in these courses. The major project of the year was to complete a task begun in 193 5, that of reaching every illiterate adult in every community and teaching him to read and write his name. A large percentage of the people in Gaston County are employed in textile plants and are, therefore, called upon at least once each month to sign their names to pay checks. En- deavoring to prepare employees to make their signatures is an invaluable service, not only to the individual but also to each textile community. Literacy classes for this purpose were held in 3 7 different communities. Hundreds of men and women learned to sign their names in life situations. The director has many of these autographs in her office. The homemaking classes have completed three units of work: preparing balanced meals, sewing, and budgeting. The classes in cooking were very popular because of their practical value. At the end of the course the students planned and prepared a balanced meal and served it to the class group and some community leaders. This course also required reading assignments and planning of meals for individual family groups. In April two teachers were assigned full time in family life education. About 50 children were returned to public schools as a direct result of classes with parents, many of whom became interested for the first time in their children and themselves. These teachers worked very closely with school principals, one of whom said "This has been a great source of help in enlisting the interest of parents in the welfare of their children." Many children will not be repeaters next year as a direct result of the family life education classes. During April, May, and June two teachers who were first aid instructors taught 12 standard courses and two advanced courses. Over 200 people received either the standard or advanced Red Cross certificate. This work was sponsored by the Red Cross Chapter and the Office of Civilian Defense. — Mrs. Lela C. Braswell, Director. GRAHAM COUNTY The adult education work in Graham County is mainly focused on literacy, homemaking, and gardening and canning supervision. In the literacy classes there are some absolute beginners and some who remember Adult Education in North Carolina 25 a little of their formal school work but who are not now functionally lit er" e The beginners are first taught to recognize and print all small and capital letters. With that background they are then taught to write and rea'd their names and addresses, to change print to script, to read short sentences, and to spell short and simple words. After learning to read and wr ite better, they usually express a desire to do simple arithmetic problems. While this method may be questionable, the director has found that most adults prefer this procedure because of then- familiarity with printed matter. The more advanced group is interested in English, reading, geography, and general subjects that had been difficult to them in school. In the homemaking classes, which, incidentally, afford the best approach to literacy education, the pupils are taught to fix things for their own homes Very few adults enrolled could sew well; but being eager to find on how they are learning much about different types of sewing. Some are particularly interested in quilt-making. Along this line, they are taught to use the old out-of-style clothing for their quilt tops and to use bleached feed and flour bags for the quilt linings. Very attractive pillow cases are being made from thoroughly bleached domestic feed sacks. In gardening, adults are taught to plant more of the vegetables needed in the daily diet. The carrot is an example of a vegetable only recently introduced here. Very few of our students had ever tried to raise carrots. With the study of foods, groups are being given lessons on menus and how to buy the more needed foods. The Red Cross Chapter here has received yarn to knit socks and sweaters for the soldiers, so now some of the students want to learn to knit in order that they might help win the war. The ones who can already knit are doing so outside of classes and in their spare time.- Miss Edna Jones, Director. GREENSBORO AND GUILFORD COUNTY Adult education has become a well established phase of public education in Greensboro and Guilford County. Even educated adults have found the need for adult education. The opportunity to study English, business mathematics, Spanish, home economics, and various other courses has aroused the interest and enthusiasm of many people. High school credit courses in English, sociology, American history, business mathematics, algebra, and geometry are offered. This year ten stuTents received diplomas from Greensboro Senior High School by com- pleting their work at night. One of these, who stopped day school seven years ago is now in the Air Corps. Another came to complete his training L order that he might better support his wife and child. Two of the girls who graduated are to go into training for nursing. Many who had finished high school came to review different subjects. These classes are solving the problem of how to face, unprepared, a world where a high school education is becoming more and more of a requisite for any kind of job. One of the high school students said, "I thought my education was ended when I had to stop school to support my family. The opening of "I can "I can "I can "I can "I can "I can "I can 26 Adult Education in North Carolina night school made it possible for me to get my high school diploma, for which I am most grateful." There were a great many first aid and home nursing classes this year. Therefore, the Adult Education Department contributed its part to the war effort. Because of many popular requests, a Spanish class was organized for teachers, business people, and other adults. As always, a fundamental part of adult education was the teaching of reading and writing to those yearning for the satisfaction of reading their letters, newspapers, and the Bible. One student said, "Changing my 'x' mark to my written signature was the happiest day of my life. I have much more respect for myself." Another student kept a record of the things she learned to do from attending adult classes: "I can sign my name." read the Bible." sign my children's report cards." write a letter." read the newspaper." "I can endorse my check." add my own accounts." fill our money orders." The home economics classes have concentrated on improving the basic essentials of life: food, clothing, and shelter. They have learned to plan, prepare, and serve meals, thus enabling the students to be more conscious of the importance of the nutritional needs of their families. In the sewing unit, clothing and textiles were studied. Projects included: how to dress becomingly, choose fabrics and select frocks for home and street, use patterns, sew and alter, and how to know material. The home im- provement projects were concerned with making kitchens more convenient, renovating furniture, and rearranging rooms. The Negro classes were encouraging from the standpoint of attendance and interest. There was splendid advancement in the three "R's" while outside work through a Reading Club gave experience in the use of the library. They also enjoyed educational lectures with slides. Aside from their regular work in elementary subjects they had training in maid service, such as menu-planning, food preparation, table setting, and general housekeeping duties. Another outstanding feature of the year was the parent education program, which featured forums conducted by students and outstanding leaders on "Family and Community Contacts." The round-table type of program attracted the interest of the parents, and the informal, lively discussions, were both educational and enjoyable. Some of the points agreed upon were: that more good can be done for children around the family fireside than anywhere else, that the child's home environment is of supreme importance, and that a close tie of cooperation should exist between the home and the school. Judging from what has been done in this program of adult education in the schools of Greensboro, and Guilford County, this movement is in its early stages and the future is indeed bright — Mrs. Laura S. McCargo, Director. Adult Education in North Carolina 27 HIGH POINT General adult education classes in High Point are attended throughout the year by men and women who want to refresh themselves in subjects. of learning pursued years ago, or by those who, having found need in their adult lives for subjects not offered previously, wish to keep themselves abreast of the changing times. Realizing that teaching adults is difficult, requiring not only profes- sional skill of the highest type but also a keen understanding of the social implications surrounding the life of the student, the teaching staff i& selected very carefully from the local High School faculty and High Point College by Supt. C. F. Carroll. The entire program is organized to meet the needs and preferences of pupils; therefore, flexibility is an outstanding characteristic of this type of work. To aid those desiring elementary education, classes are taught to make students more literate, to encourage wise spending, and to bring about better community attitudes and a higher standard of living. Enriching family life is given a very important place in the program. Nutrition, cooking, sewing, and how to plan and buy well-balanced low cost foods are very popular areas of learning. Kindness, helpful deeds, sympathetic understanding, faith and love, and all that goes towards making better homes is given considerable emphasis. Professional and business girls, realizing that health increases happi- ness and makes the individual more efficient, are given classes in recreation and health education. Because of the demand from business, professional, and social groups, classes in advanced and cultural courses are offered. Modern history, parliamentary law, crafts, choral music, social courtesy, public speaking, and Spanish are given with most satisfactory results. It is the aim of adult education in High Point to render whatever service it can to the citizens of the community regardless of age or previous educational experience. Believing that continuing education is as neces- sary for adults as for youths, the program will continue to emphasize proper understanding of the city, its varieties of people, its problems and available facilities. — Mrs. Elizabeth McGuinn, Director. KINSTON CITY SCHOOLS The program of adult education in Kinston has been guided by three objectives: improved homemaking, new appreciation of the American way of life, and improvement in standards of literacy. Each of the three teachers has been supplied a building as a center of operations in the area served. Simple equipment is provided at each center. Units of work have been given in sewing, cooking, nutrition and child care, family budgeting, home safety, and gardening, both vegetable and floral. One group had a unit in Bible study. All have been taught some steps in crocheting and knitting. Instruction in citizenship has been sought through sharing papers and magazines and in group discussions and group activities. Social occasions. 2S Adult Education in North Caroli\a have tended to develop group interests and activities. Red Cross services, savings, and civilian defense activities have been promoted. Well in- formed citizens have led discussion periods on current happenings. Literacy classes have been largely held in homes with only a small number in each group. Several have improved greatly in writing and in reading. The awakened ambition of people and the hearty response of young married women have been heartening. — Supt. W. A. Graham, Director. THE TRI-CITY: LEAKSVILLE, SPRAY, AND DRAPER Adult education in its more modern form was launched in the "Tri-City" in the summer of 1937. However, prior to this time, some outstanding night school work had been done. The writer taught night school classes in Spray during and just after World War No. 1. This work was then under the auspices of the Y. M. C. A. and sponsored by Marshall Field and Company. Later an excellent piece of Adult Literacy work sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of the County was accomplished in the "Tri-City" and throughout Rockingham County. The results of this undertaking were so conspicuous as to attract nation wide attention. In a three months' campaign in the spring of 1931, 668 pupils were enrolled in classes taught by volunteer teachers. Two hundred and twenty-five learned to read and write, while 75 finished a more advanced course. In the summer of 193 7 through a careful survey from all available sources a master list of more than a thousand who could not read and write was secured. Three teachers undertook the task of reaching and enrolling these in classes which met in the various school buildings. The first year the work was rather slow and discouraging, but full of thrills for individuals. Men and women would rejoice when they first signed their own name or read their first sentence in the Bible. The teacher in charge will never forget the happy glow in the eyes of a very religious mother of a large family, when she slowly spelled out and finally pro- nounced the word "Jesus." She jumped up, threw her arms around the neck of the lady teaching her and said "Is that the way Jesus looks in print? I'll never be able to thank you enough for teaching me " The next year the faculty was enlarged and the work became more popular, so that by the end of the second year, the number of illiterates had been cut by half. The number of Marshall Field Company employees who were X-markers had been reduced from 200 to 50. In July 1939, the State Aid program was started, and with the WPA, the scope of the work was greatly enlarged. Classes were taught in advanced literacy work, safe driving, first aid, shorthand, typing, dra- matics, art, piano, chorus work, citizenship, and Bible. The work of the past year has possibly been the most effective in the history of adult education in this community. The enrollment of the classes has not been quite so large as formerly due to the number of war- time activities, but the type of work done in the departments of music, both instrumental and vocal, has been of very high grade. Work in our adult choral classes has not only produced a better type of singing by the Adult Education in North Carolina 29 members of the classes, but it has created the desire for a higher type of music both sacred and secular in all sections of the "Tri-City" where these classes have been carried on. Unusual talent has been discovered and at least partially developed. In the future this will mean much in the uplift of the community as a whole. The work in commercial education, nutri- tion, and regular literacy classes has been of high order. The leaders and sponsors in this Administrative Unit have been defi- nitely convinced that as a rule better results can be secured by employing on a part-time basis the best teachers available in our regular school system. These, working two hours each night or two nights per week, seem to accomplish more than we can get from the same amount of money spent otherwise. This part-time teacher plan will be more largely used during the coming year. Courses will also be readjusted somewhat to meet our wartime needs. One thing that has added greatly to the success of adult education work in the Leaksville Unit is the whole-hearted support and cooperation of the joint sponsors — the local school board and Marshall Field Company. The workers feel that no other Unit in the State has more loyal support from both education and industrial leaders. — C. M. Beach, Director. MECKLENBURG COUNTY By cooperating with Red Cross and Parent-Teacher Associations, State Aid Adult Education has very effectively conducted classes in home nursing and home-making. With this three-fold cooperation, 62 6 county women were given instruction in bathing babies and the sick, changing beds with patients in them, performing duties of the home attendant, determining types of illnesses, controlling diseases, treating common ailments and caring for emergencies, using thermometers, preparing ice-bags and hot water bottles, making poultices and stupes, preparing food for the sick and aged, and carrying out the doctor's orders in case of severe home illness. While registered nurses were conducting these classes, regular home- making teachers were teaching nutrition, clothing, home improvement, and home arts and crafts. Students learned the necessity and value of properly balanced diets and made menus fitting the family income by using commodities such as canned goods, winter produce, cured meats, chickens, butter, milk, and eggs. They found it easy to prepare balanced meals at a small cost when they knew how to use what they had. In clothing lessons they learned plain and fancy sewing, renovating, care of clothing, selection of materials and styles to suit individual coloring and figures, plain and fancy stitches, worked and bound buttonholes, and darning and patching. Outgrown dresses were cut down to fit smaller children; men's pants and suits were made into garments for small boys; out-of-style dresses were brought up-to-date by re-making and adding new trimmings; and pajamas, skirts and aprons were made from worn dresses and shirts. One group, having completed their lessons, held a style show and displayed their work. Lessons on home improvement included new methods in general house- work, improvised furniture, and yard beautification. Instead of "hit-or- miss" methods, students learned to budget their time, to plan their work 30 Adult Education in North Carolina so that each member of the family was assigned certain duties, and then to follow these plans systematically. As a result they found their work much easier and "had time on their hands." They learned how to make vanity dressers, bookcases, cabinets, storage closets, etc., from egg crates and packing boxes. Many of these were very attractive when painted. With native cedars and shrubs obtained by a "shrubbery exchange" their yards were beautified; windows and doors were screened; and several "exchange" classes were held where students brought their surplus com- modities to exchange with others. Through the sale of handwork, meager incomes were supplemented; over thirty dollars worth of this was sold to friends of the director. At least six students, after working in the fields in addition to their regular house work, sat by kerosene lamps and did beautiful handwork. A booth displaying some of their crafts netted one group a $25 premium at the Southern States Fair. — Mrs. Julia B. Sledge, Director. ROBESON COUNTY The adult education program in Robeson County for the year 1941-42 centered around preparation for defense work. As there were so many rejected draftees among the Negro and Indian races and only one State Aid teacher in the county, the services of volunteer teachers were solicited. Many ex-teachers, some of whom were married, responded to the call. They taught men and boys who lived near them and could come to their homes at night. Thirty-three teachers assisted with this voluntary type of service. Out of an enrollment of 240, about 107 students were given a minimum of six lessons. Preparation for jobs was presented to these students as an objective, rather than fitness for military service. An appeal was made by the Director to the advisory council of the home demonstration women to assist in teaching rejected draftees wishing to volunteer for special service and not educationally qualified. During the months of March and April several of the clubs were visited and appeals were made for volunteer teachers. The county home demonstration agent gave enthusiastic support to this cause. The club women were told that this was a type of defense work they could carry on in their own homes, without additional transportation. Forty-five club women offered to assist with the work; one has already taught three white boys of near draft age who are residing on her farm. For a period of two months, an unusually interesting class called a Business Men's Class was conducted. This group included men from the cotton mill who wanted special lessons in arithmetic in order to obtain promotions, and young men from the farms who were anxious to obtain defense jobs. The teachers had a two-fold objective in teaching this class: To fit these students for a better civilian life, and to qualify them for military service. One of the most promising students, with a wife and three children, has obtained a very remunerative job at Fort Bragg. This young man mastered subtraction, multiplication, and long division in the short time that he attended this school. He told the teachers that he was anxious to continue his education. He was advised by them to do some reading every day, however tired he might be. Adult Education in North Carolina 31 Some work with those needing rehahilitation was carried on in the county this year. Two young boys about eighteen years of age who had never been able to attend school were taught. One of these has a nervous ailment and the other is cripple and confined to a wheel chair. The mother says the crippled boy does not get so lonely now that he can read. — Mrs. Eva McKay, Director. ROWAN COUNTY AND SALISBURY This year the Rowan County and Salisbury School Systems have offered, through the Adult Education Department, first aid, home hygiene, typing, Spanish, parent education, homemaking, elementary education, and a home and school cooperation program. Since it is the task of adult education to help individuals learn to choose their way of living and, having made the choice, achieve the desired results, the curriculum was selective. Classes were offered in subjects: first, in which there was an expressed interest; and secondly, in which there was a chance of probable response. The major efforts in adult education after December 7th were in first aid, home hygiene, and typing. Many incidents were reported showing that first aid training was valuable to the homemaker as well as to the community at large. One young mother was so grateful for the instruc- tion she had received that she reported this incident: "My son's foot was severely cut. Because I knew where to apply pressure until I could tie a tourniquet, my child did not lose too much blood. The doctor was pleased that I had helped him and my son." As a result of another first aid class one community had an awakening. When the plant superintendent's wife asked a first aid instructor to go to this community, she said "I don't know how many will come. We have never gotten together as a group; in fact, we are rather clannish and shy." Fifty women expressed the desire to attend classes and because the school was over a mile away, the superintendent's wife secured permission for the class to meet in the mess hall at the plant. This was quite a privilege since only workers were allowed within the gates of this defense plant. On opening night 6 5 registered. The attitude of every person had changed at the end of the course. As a group they expressed appreciation for the privilige of meeting their neighbors and studying with them. With the help of the superintendent's wife plans are now under way to organize a club for these women next year, so that this will become a community in JJSjlLrit as well as name. Bf At the request of the home demonstration agent, a home hygiene class was organized with the club members meeting at their club house. They requested a first aid class when they had finished their hygiene course. Many requests for nutrition and home hygiene classes were not filled because there were not enough qualified instructors available. The three forty-hour typing classes were such a success that they asked for an advanced course. Many members were able to type final school records, secure part time jobs, and aid with civilian defense records. When one of the older members of the class received her certificate, she said "Thanks so much; I shall cherish it as long as I live. It is the first certificate of any kind I have ever received." 32 Adult Education in North Carotin a The Conversational Spanish class, a small but interested group, studied two books and read the weekly Spanish newspaper El Echo. The members of the family life group, because of the economic strain with its accompanying worry and improper housing, focused their attention upon the need of learning how to improve their homes and living condi- tions through better home management and the development of home- making skills. For the white as well as the Negro, mental hygiene, nutrition, meal planning, food service, and marketing were stressed. Note- books, posters, and surplus commodities from the welfare department, aided the classes in learning how to plan, select, prepare and serve attractively low cost nourishing food to the family. The elementary education classes were the greatest problem. The draft boards sent a complete list of rejected draftees below fourth grade level. Cards were sent and visits made to all who could be found. Some of the rejectees were physically or mentally below par and others did not want to learn. However, many women were enrolled in elementary education classes and made decided progress with their study of "The Home and National Defense," as all subject matter centered around this topic. Through interest in a member's brother stationed at Pearl Harbor, one class assembled as a class project a scrap book of historical and geographi- cal pictures and newspaper clippings. This same class became interested in Latin America. Maps and globes were familiar tools used by this group in discussing the countries and their products. A full time Negro worker, known as "the visiting teacher," was em- ployed to carry on a home and school cooperation program in the city schools. "The aim of the service is to discover children's difficulties before they become serious; and with the school, the home, and social agencies, to work out ways by which the resources and the facilities of the school may be utilized to meet the particular needs of these children." From her statistical report 581 visits into homes were requested by the principals and teachers. Frequent absences from school was a definite reason for a visit. Visits to homes were made, not only in behalf of school attendance, but also to discuss the remedy for physical defects found in children, sanitary conditions of homes, and to interest parents in the parent education classes set up for the study of all these problems. With 23 part time teachers, one full time visiting teacher, and one full time director, Adult Education in Rowan County and Salisbury has com- pleted its fourth successful year of service to the community. — Mrs. Juanita K. Henry, Director. RUTHERFORD COUNTY Adult Education has functioned in Rutherford County with increasing interest and the progress made has attracted the attention of people throughout the county. The work has been wide-spread, the entire county having had access to its many opportunities. The people have grasped these opportunities and their everyday response and faithful work have revealed their appreciation and gratitude. Though the teaching staff has been composed of only five persons, the instructional program has in no way been limited. As a result of an Adult Education in North Carolina 33 outstanding piece of work in elementary education, every mill worker can now read and write. This feat was accomplished through the splendid cooperation of the mill officials and the efforts of the teachers. The parent education endeavor has been worth all the effort and time devoted to it. Many mothers who knew nothing of the care of themselves during pregnancy or care of the child in early infancy have learned the necessity and importance of bodily care and child welfare. Many children whose teeth, tonsils, eyes, and ears were affecting their health have been helped and in many cases cured by the aid secured from the health and welfare departments. Mothers who never before cared about their chil- dren's education learned the importance of regular school attendance. First aid and home nursing classes were outstanding. Many clubs, various civic organizations, mill officials, WPA workers and officials, bus drivers, and school teachers took the courses through the adult education department. Art classes were exceptional. Over 150 members joined the art classes throughout the county and the exhibits were recognized as professional achievements. At the end of the work in April an art exhibit was held at the Norris" 1 Library and the public invited to attend. The exhibit was praised by those who came — Mrs. Edna Y. Twitty, Director. SWAIN COUNTY On the assumption that a "problem child usually represents a problem parent," Swain County conducted an interesting experiment in parent education during the 1941-42 school year. Through joint agreement with the State director of adult education and the superintendent of schools, the adult education teacher was assigned the specific duty of investigating school absences, and having determined their nature, of remedying the conditions. Work of this type necessitated very close cooperation with public school teachers and principals. Although classroom teachers ac- complish much with their visits, a more thorough understanding of the problem can be. ascertained by an adult education teacher who has lived in the county all her life, who knows every family history, and who leaves every home carrying with her an invitation to return the next day. A few figures will tell the story. By making 1,152 individual visits and by working continuously with 93 families, 803 children were returned to school. It is the feeling in this county that no family can be helped in a better way than to have its children attend and succeed in the public school. The types of services rendered varied as the needs and problems of families varied. Lack of clothing was probably responsible for more absences than any other one cause. Through the assistance of civic organizations more than four hundred children were given sufficient clothing to keep them in school. Actually, 1,158 pieces of clothing were carried to homes and fitted on children. It sometimes happened that lack of understanding school policies and teacher motives created a cause for absence from school. In cases of this type the adult education teacher served as interpreter, mediator, and conciliator. 34 Adult Education in North Carolina Some children were in need of medical attention and their parents were in need of information on correcting physical deficiencies. In meeting situations of this type the adult education teacher sought and secured the services of the county health department. Many people did not know that such services were available on request. "Billy just can't see" is a statement sometimes heard in parent-teacher conferences when the teacher is explaining why Billy isn't progressing in reading. If Billy can't see and Billy's parents can't provide glasses, the adult education teacher has another opportunity. In solving cases of this type the Lions Club or some other civic organization is called on to pro- vide the examination and the glasses. The club has had a chance to serve; the child has been salvaged from the "problem" category. And so, the adult education teacher has spent her year "helping parents help their children." — Mrs. Nora Lee Calhoun, Director. WILMINGTON Many jobs and good pay have probably created the necessity for adult education in Wilmington. As a result of the emergency, this city has become a center of industry and business with all the accompanying de- mands for workers, whether already skilled or merely potential. Boys and girls of junior and senior class age who can meet the labor age re- quirement, selectees from nearby Camp Davis who have had their education curtailed, men and women who are already employed but who need more skill for competitive promotion, and those not yet employed who have their eyes on a job — they are the ones who have asked for adult evening classes in order that they might take advantage of the boom in employ- ment and service, and at the same time continue their education. Many adults come to night school after having worked 8 hours and made $8.00 during the day. The teachers for these classes are, for the most part, teachers in the New Hanover High School who have already taught in the regular day school. They are employed and paid by the hour on the basis of their certificates. They teach the same subject at night which they teach in the day. Most teachers report that instead of finding the extra work burdensome, they find the shift from children to adults almost recreational. The whole in- structional program is so organized as to meet high school credit regu- lations. Under this system adults have the option of crediting their work toward high school graduation. The year the program was begun eight adults received high school diplomas. The curriculum is determined by the frequency of requests for a par- ticular subject. Any course offered in the day school will be repeated for adults at night when the demand is sufficient to justify it. In Wilmington, adult education is education for adults — any type of education for any type of adult. — Grace White Greene, Director. WINSTON-SALEM (A letter from an adult education teacher.) Dear Mr. Miller: May 14, 1942 May I tell you how I spend a typical day? As you know, every morning I go to private homes for lessons with individuals who are unable to leave Adult Education in North Carolina 35 their homes and attend group classes. Most of these students are absolute beginners who want to learn to read the Bible or learn to write a son in military service. With this anxiety and desire you can imagine how much they look forward to my visits. Usually they are waiting on the porch or peeping from a window. Even the absolute illiterate has his favorite passage in the Bible, and so learning to find it and then learning to read it is a first experience. From the partially known to the better known is a favorite procedure with the learner, whose ideas about learning should never be ignored. Writing and simple arithmetic are correlated with reading; so then, development in the three "R's" is simultaneous. In the afternoon, groups come together for advanced elementary edu- cation. One member of the class is a high school pupil, who after 15 years out of school, wants to brush up on business mathematics and English; most of the pupils, however, are now on about a fifth grade level. Arithmetic, English, reading, history, geography, health, and spelling are studied. In some subjects we use the same texts that the children do. One mother expressed her approval of regular public school texts when she said "I always wanted to know what was inside those books my little "boy kept bringing home." It is a joy to teach these oeople. Respectfully, Mrs. Florence Edmunds, Director. ADULT EDUCATION— What It Does PART 111. THE PUBLIC FORUM PROGRAM Because of the interest and enthusiasm with which public forums are being received, a few pages are being devoted to the forum activities of the 1941-42 year. The methods of financing and organizing forums are related. Particular attention is focused on the Union County Forum Experiment. One of the privileges enjoyed in a democracy is the right to assemble peaceably, discuss matters liberally, agree or disagree vigorously, and yet conclude the session harmoniously. Such a right was established with the founding of the colonies and has been consistently encouraged through the years as a means of promoting public interest in the welfare of the nation. Since the early Town Hall days, organized public discussion has been typical of the American way of interpreting life, liberty, and happiness. In a letter to Administrator Paul V. McNutt on September 2, 1941, the President indicated his feeling towards public forums with this statement: "Now, under the impact of the defense emergency, I am convinced that it is more important than ever that the people be encouraged freely to assemble to discuss their common problems. Indeed, as I have said before, this is one of the freedoms that we are determined to defend." Since 1939 North Carolina has offered financial assistance to school administrative units desiring to organize and conduct public forum programs. These funds, which are administered by the Division of Adult Education and released to school units on a fifty-fifty matching basis, will permit any school unit to secure as much as fifty dollars of State funds. The technical organization of the forum in a unit is done by a representative of the North Carolina Public Forum Office which is a branch of the University Extension Division. Through close cooperation, a plan has been worked out whereby the Forum Office will send trained and competent discussion leaders, together with materials, anywhere in the State at the standard charge of twelve dollars per visit. Under this plan a unit having a hundred dollar budget could put on eight forum sessions and spend four dollars for supplies, or a program half this size could be conducted on a fifty dollar budget. During the 1941-42 school year superintendents responded en- thusiastically to the forum idea. Information as to where forums Adult Education in North Carolina 37 were conducted, what topics were discussed, and who led the discussions is given below: Bladen County Leader TOPIC W. A. Olsen How Efficient Is Our Democracy .. Helmut Kuhn.. Why Do We Fight Hitlerism? B. U. Ratchford War, Finance, and Inflation.. E. L. Henderson Democracy in a Time Like This E. J. Woodhouse American and British Relations, Past, Present, and Future Caldwell County E. J. Woodhouse American and British Relations, Past, Present, and Future D. D. Carroll Perils Facing Competitive Capitalism. Carteret County Robert S. Rankin Emergency Powers and Private Rights A. D. Frank America's Place in the Present War Paul H. Clyde... Far Eastern Affairs..— E. J. Woodhouse America's Position in World Affairs Clinton Margaret M. Edwards Consumer Purchasing and Problems of Family Finance Herbert J. Herring... What We Defend in America Hugh T. Lefler Sampson County in North Carolina History. Ralph McDonald.... The Far Eastern Crisis Attendance IS 125 20 75 30 100 60 Davie County E. J. Woodhouse Democracy As Compared With Communism... David Faust.. America's Responsibility in a Post-War World. P. H. Gwynn Teaching Bible in Public Schools J. J. Stevenson The Church in World Affairs D. D. Carroll. World Economy, World Government, World Spirit Ralph McDonald Japan's War Aims 70 65 40 66 125 250 85 62 250 175 100 125 75 150 Edenton W. D. Perry.. Youth Problems. Phillip Russell Journalism Mitchell County Willis A. Parker... Is Isolation Possible? Willis A. Parker How To Beat The Dictators C. C. Crittenden What Kind of Peace Treaty Should Be Made After the War Ralph McDonald Japan's War Aims Willis A. Parker Background of World Conflict.. Willis A. Parker The Making of Tomorrow... — Morven E. J. Woodhouse America's Part in This War.. J. B. Slack Rural Health , Ralph McDonald Amendments Pamlico County Ralph McDonald Our Enemies, The Japanese..... H. J. Woodhouse. Peace After This War. A. D. Frank America's Part in World War No. II. 54 40 75 30 100 21 24 45 60 50 25 35 30 38 Adult Education in North Carolina Roanoke Rapids Leader TOPIC Attendance- E. J. Woodhouse The U. S. Entrance Into The War 125 A. D. Frank Relationship of U. S. to Present World Situation 125 W. T. Couch Maintaining Civilian Morale 125 Ralph McDonald Japan's War Aims 125 C. C. Crittenden..... North Carolinians Have Always Been Fighters.. 125 Watauga County Willis A. Parker Why Aid Russia? 48 B. U. Ratchford War, Finance, and Inflation 55 E. J. Woodhouse What The War Means. 65 Edwin L. Duckies Mexico in Pan-American Relations 35 Wayne County Robert Browning.... South America 30 W. T. Couch. Asia and the United States 38 E. J. Woodhouse The English People..... 36 Edwin L. Duckies After The War 41 THE UNION COUNTY FORUM EXPERIMENT The Union County Schools, under the supervision of Supt. E. H. Broome,, have completed an experiment in forum organization which will probably become a model for many other counties. The principals in the school system, with the aid of a representative from the State Forum Office, first studied the art of conducting a public forum. Having acquired the method, each principal then agreed to study and become well-informed on one current topic and to lead a discussion on his topic in each of the other school communities in the county. As a result of the experiment three thousand adults had the experience of learning cooperatively, lay leader- ship was recognized and developed in communities, and community in- terest in public affairs was strengthened. ADULT EDUCATION— How It Operates A. Personnel — Qualifications and Method of Selection. 1. The teacher in charge of the Adult Education Program in a county or city administrative unit shall be known as the Adult Education Director. No administrative unit may employ more than one director. All other teachers shall be called Adult Education teachers. 2. Adult Education Director. This person shall hold a North Carolina teacher's certificate of a grade not lower than Class A. Exceptions to these qualifications will be made only in cases of superior person- alities and demonstrated ability in the special field of adult edu- cation. 3. Adult Education Teachers. These teachers shall hold regular North Carolina teachers' certificates, preferably of a grade not lower than Class A. Except for the teaching of special non-academic subjects, no teachers will be employed who do not hold teachers' certificates. 4. All adult education directors and teachers paid in part from State funds shall be selected by the board of education in each adminis- trative unit, on recommendation of the superintendent of said unit, and subject to the approval of the Adult Education Administrative Board of the State Department of Public Instruction. B. Salaries and Functions. 1. The adult education director and the teachers shall be paid accord- ing to the State teachers' salary schedule for the certificate held. When the director holds a principal's certificate and is responsible for the supervision of seven or more full-time teachers or their equivalent, he may receive a salary not exceeding that of a classi- fied principal of a seven-teacher school. 2. A full-time teacher is defined as one who teaches four hours per day and spends at least two additional hours under the supervision and at the discretion of the superintendent in either organization and preparation for class work, in parent education, or in some other phase of adult education. The work done in these two addi- tional hours should not be included under "Time" on the requisi- tion for reimbursement. In the "Time" column should go the number of full days taught within the calendar month, on the basis that a full day is four hours of actual teaching. 3. A part-time teacher will be paid according to the State schedule for the actual time services are rendered. Directors and superin- tendents should be particularly careful in planning the work and estimating the salary of part-time teachers, being sure that: a. Part-time teachers do their proportionate amount of the work to be done in excess of actual teaching. For example: a half- time teacher would be expected to teach at least two hours daily and spend at least one hour daily in performing other adult education duties. The equivalent of this time arrangement, of course, is satisfactory. 40 Adult Education in North Carolina b. Part-time teachers shall not accumulate time in any one day which would exceed the time of a full-time teacher for one day. For example: a part-time teacher doing six hours of work one day and three hours of work the next day would be paid for one and one-half days — not for two and one-eighth days. 4. With the approval of the superintendent of schools, teachers em- ployed in the day schools may be employed as part-time teachers for adult education classes. The superintendent should very care- fully observe the work of the teacher in both programs, being sure that the efficiency rendered in each program is not lessened' by reason of the extra work. 5. It is expected that each director will do some teaching. The amount of time to be devoted to teaching should depend upon: a. The number of teachers supervised. b. The amount of time which the superintendent wishes the director to devote to parent education. c. The amount of time which the superintendent thinks the director should devote to an interpretation of the program to the public. d. The amount of time which the director must spend in the organi- zation and administration of the program. C. State Participation in Payment of Salaries, Travel, and Supplies. 1. Compensation for adult education directors and teachers will be made upon a reimbursement basis. Reimbursement will be based on requisition forms furnished by the State Department of Public Instruction and mailed to the Director of the Division of Adult Education. 2. The State will pay 50% of the salary of the adult education director and adult education teachers, not exceeding the State salary schedule; 50% of the actual travel necessary for the director, not exceeding $30.00 per month; and 50% of the expendi- tures for materials not exceeding 5 % of the total approved budget. 3. A local unit may supplement the salary of a teacher or a director, provided the supplement be paid from funds other than those already set up to match State funds. In such a case, however, the State will reimburse only to the extent of 50% of the State salary rating. 4. Full-time teachers are eligible for retirement and are expected to comply with the regulations governing the State Retirement System. D. Curriculum — Class Organization and Attendance. 1. No uniform curriculum is prescribed. The State Aid program is democratic in the sense that it attempts to meet the varying needs of individuals and communities. The type of instruction to be offered in any particular community can best be determined by the school superintendent of the participating unit with the aid of local Community School Councils. Family life education, parent edu- cation, homemaking, safety and health education, public affairs, commercial education, and elementary, secondary, and general adult education are the principal types of instruction offered. In- Adult Education in North Carolina 41 structional materials are secured from many sources or developed by workers in the program. Lists of some of the material available and suggestions as to its use in particular situations may be ob- tained from the office of the State director. 2. The minimum enrollment for a class shall be fifteen students, and the average attendance not less than ten. If for two consecutive sessions the class attendance falls below ten, the superintendent should consider the advisability of continuing the class. E. Cooperation with Allied Agencies. It is the policy of the Adult Education Division to integrate the Adult Education program with the regular public school system, and to coordinate the program with the programs of other established agencies in the State. Adult Education may be thought of as the common denominator of community agencies. ADULT EDUCATION— What You Should Read, For Further Information Bryson, Lyman. Adult Education. American. 1936. The functions of adult education, how and why adults learn, special methods in teaching adults, organization and promotion — these are the major concerns of teachers and directors, for whom this book was de- signed. Cartwright, Morse Adams. Ten Years of Adult Education. Macmillan. 1935. Not altogether historical, the book treats the adult education move- ment from 1926 to 1935, the problems encountered, general considerations affecting the program, some changing practices, and the social signifi- cance of the whole movement. Chancellor, John, editor. Helping Adults to Learn. American Library Asso- ciation. 1939. Containing recommendations on the use of libraries in conducting an effective adult program, this book presents a resource always available but not always tapped. Particular emphasis is given to library advisory and guidance services. Debatin, Frank M. Administration of Adult Education. American. 1938. Problems of administration, personnel, and finance, with special atten- tion to adult needs, adult guidance, and adults as consumers, are dis- cussed in a very informative way. The chapter on publicity has excellent suggestions for a director. Ely, Mary L., editor. Adult Education in Action. American Association for Adult Education. 1936. In this edition the editor has assembled the best articles on adult education written during recent years. Over a hundred writers have contributed their ideas and related their experiences in this collection of readings, most of which pertain to the agencies and instruments of adult education. The book should be read by every person in need of indoctrination and particularly by directors desiring to invade new areas of public education. Everett, Samuel, editor. The Community School. Appleton-Century. 1938. This book, published under the direction of the Society for Curriculum Study, consists mainly of reports from twelve prominent educators who were interested in showing how the school should be converted into a community center. Plans are suggested for making a community survey, building a community school curriculum, and providing for the needs of all age groups in the community. Landis, Benson Y., and Willard, John D. Rural Adult Education. Mac- millan. 1933. Part I is devoted to the significance of rural life in American civili- zation with social and economic implications. Part II lists the means of adult education in rural areas, such as farm organizations, agricul- tural extension, library and university extension, religious organizations, radio, and the public school. Part III makes suggestions for applying the means and securing results. Adult Education in North Carolina 43 Mueller, A. D. Principles and Methods in Adult Education. Prentice-Hall. 1940. Persons interested in the public forum movement and teachers using the group discussion method of teaching adults will find this book in- formative. Chapter V on The Nature and Development of Individual Thinking is a prelude to self-education. National Education Association. Family Living and Our Schools. Appleton- Century. 1941. This report of the Committee on Curriculum Aspects of Education for Home and Family Living makes suggestions for instructional programs designed to familiarize and train children and adults for responsibilities in family living. American Association for Adult Education. Adult Education Journal. The Association, 525 West 120th Street, New York. The Journal is published quarterly and gives a very good coverage of news from the field. Editorials are usually pertinent and special articles well prepared. N. E. A. Dept. of Adult Education. Adult Education Bulletin. National Education Association, Washington, D. C. This bulletin is published six times a year and contains articles on current happenings in the field. Research studies are often reviewed and addresses and proceedings of national meetings printed.