They are not reading up to their potential. Our program is important in helping them read, write and spell better. It really works. According to Shermeyer, by the year 2000, two out of every three Americans could be considered illiterate. With permission from their supervisors, employees are given work-release time from to attend the Reading Improvement Program.
Classes are small, with only about five employees per class.
The classes meet twice a week for 90 minutes each from September to May, and employees can join ongoing classes at any time. The program is publicized within the University through benefits information materials, Shermeyer's worksite visits and, perhaps the best recommendation, word of mouth. The classes involve employees from all across the University, including skilled trades, salaried and custodial service employees. Others are concentrating on refining their reading and spelling, as well as learning skills that will help them assist their children with their schoolwork. I first found out about it through a fellow worker.