Adult Education is a Lifeline
Adult education programs depend on federal funding to help adults improve literacy, earn credentials, and transform their lives.
These aren’t just programs—they are lifelines for millions of learners working tirelessly to support their families, strengthen their communities, and create a better tomorrow.
The Coalition on Adult Basic Education has created a special advocacy section for this crisis, “Faces of Adult Education.” The section gives people 10 different ways to join the movement.
Click the logo to find out how to take action now.
Mobilizing for Adult Education: Responding to the FY26 Budget Threat
The administration released its Fiscal Year 2026 “Skinny Budget.” The proposal eliminates $729 million in federal funding for adult education.
* $715 million for adult education state grants removed
* $13.712 million for adult education national activities removed
The threats are clear and serve as a call to action for all adult education members in the Commonwealth and beyond. Congress is charged with budgeting authority and they need to hear our voices. Members of both the House and Senate will create their budget versions and that is where we can impact the process. Get in touch with your representatives and let them know you support adult education.
COABE has serval programs that mobilize all adult education stakeholders and speak with one voice. Act as a private citizen using your personal phone, email, and internet—please do not use work resources.
— Call your legislators using the sample script provided.
(Fill out your local information and the appropriate contacts appear.)
— Email your senators and representatives—use the sample message to make it easy.
(Fill out your local information and the appropriate contacts appear.)
— Contact your legislators on social media, tag them and share a success story or simply share COABE’s messaging on X.
Share this message widely with friends, family, educators, and community partners.
Amplify our collective voice by reposting COABE’s and VAACE’s updates on your social media.
Act Now!