Clarendon County Adult Education (CCAE) has recently garnered national acclaim for its exceptional contributions to adult education, receiving two prestigious awards from the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE). This recognition highlights the program’s commitment to improving educational opportunities for adult learners in the region.
Key Takeaways
- CCAE received the Excellence in Local Programming Award, a national honor recognizing outstanding adult education programs.
- Director Lara Kolb was named South Carolina’s State Advocate for Adult Education Fellow for 2025.
- The awards come with a $2,000 stipend to enhance CCAE’s programs.
National Recognition for Excellence
CCAE has been awarded the Excellence in Local Programming Award, a significant achievement that is presented annually to only one program across the United States. This award acknowledges CCAE’s success in enhancing educational opportunities for adult learners in Clarendon County.
Lara Kolb, the director of CCAE, expressed her surprise and pride upon receiving the award. After a previous disappointment in not securing a grant from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, Kolb decided to apply for the COABE award, believing in the program’s impact. "I was a little sour about not receiving a Dollar General Literacy Foundation grant last year, so I thought, ‘You know what? We are good. We are worth it.’ So I applied for this one, and we won," Kolb stated.
Funding and Future Plans
The recognition comes with a $2,000 stipend, which CCAE plans to invest in its programs to further support adult learners. Kolb attributes the program’s success to its high graduation rates and its dedication to helping students transition into postsecondary education and the workforce.
Advocacy and Leadership
In addition to the program’s award, Kolb has been selected as South Carolina’s State Advocate for Adult Education Fellow (SAAEF) for 2025. This fellowship is a prestigious program that trains leaders in adult education advocacy. As one of only 50 fellows nationwide, Kolb will engage in professional development, participate in policy discussions, and advocate for increased resources for adult education.
Kolb expressed her honor in representing South Carolina at the national level, stating, "I love this program, and I don’t want it to be the best-kept secret anymore."
Upcoming Events
Kolb will be recognized for her achievements at the COABE 2025 Conference in Dallas, scheduled from March 28 to April 2. The fellowship will cover all expenses related to her travel, lodging, and participation in advocacy training.
The Importance of Adult Education
COABE represents over 82,000 adult educators and is dedicated to providing professional development, advocacy, and resources to advance adult learning programs across the nation. The organization’s mission is to empower educators to help adults succeed and foster thriving communities.
Kolb’s recognition not only highlights CCAE’s influence on adult education in South Carolina but also underscores the critical need for ongoing support for programs that create opportunities for non-traditional students. "We have an incredible staff and a strong community," Kolb remarked. "These awards show that what we’re doing in Clarendon County matters."
Sources
- Clarendon County Adult Education earns national recognition for excellence and advocacy | Manning Live, Manning Live.
