Garden City Career Connection Academy Celebrates National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week
The Garden City Career Connection Academy (GCCCA), the adult education division of Garden City Community College, is proud to celebrate National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, September 14–18, 2026, and recognize the transformative impact adult education and family literacy programs have on individuals, families and communities.
National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week is an annual nationwide observance that raises awareness of the importance of adult education and foundational skills. Across the country, the week highlights the millions of adults who benefit from instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, English language learning and digital skills while recognizing the achievements of adult learners and the educators, volunteers and programs that support them.
Adult education provides individuals with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to pursue career opportunities, continue their education, achieve greater financial stability and build stronger futures for themselves and their families. These programs also play an important role in strengthening communities and developing a skilled workforce prepared to meet the demands of an ever-changing economy.
“Adult education is about much more than returning to the classroom. It is about creating new opportunities and helping people see what is possible for their future,” said Claudia Horney, Director of Adult Education and Literacy at GCCC. “Our students come to us with different goals, experiences and challenges, but they share a desire to improve their lives. We are honored to walk alongside them, provide the support they need and help them take the next step toward greater independence, career success and educational opportunity.”
Throughout National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, GCCCA encourages the community to:
- Recognize the accomplishments of adult learners and thank the educators, instructors, volunteers and staff who support them throughout their educational journeys.
- Advocate for adult education by increasing awareness of its impact and supporting the funding, resources and policies necessary to ensure adults have access to quality educational opportunities.
- Encourage adults to take the next step toward continuing their education. Returning to school as an adult can be challenging, but the opportunities created through education can have a lasting impact on individuals and their families.
GCCCA serves more than 700 students annually and is one of the largest adult education programs in Kansas. Through its programs and services, the academy provides learners with opportunities to strengthen foundational skills, improve English language proficiency, prepare for employment, pursue additional education and achieve their personal and professional goals.
During National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, GCCCA proudly celebrates the accomplishments of its students and recognizes the dedicated educators and community partners who help make those accomplishments possible.
To learn more about the Garden City Career Connection Academy, call 620-276-7600, visit the GCCCA webpage, or email gccca@gcccks.edu.
About GCCCA
The Garden City Career Connection Academy, a division of Garden City Community College, has provided services to students for over 40 years. GCCCA is dedicated to creating innovative learning opportunities that empower participants to meet their educational and personal goals. The academy fosters a supportive environment that champions lifelong learning and community engagement.
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Garden City Community College exists to produce positive contributors to the economic and social well-being of society.