Exploring the Landscape of Programs and Support for Adult Learners in the District of Columbia
Expert Testimony Before the Council of the District of Columbia
On November 20, 2025, adult education expert Stephanie Cronen presented testimony before the Council of the District of Columbia during a hearing titled, “Adult Workforce Education in the District.” Cronen’s testimony described promising approaches for supporting adult learners’ progress along a career pathway in Washington, D.C.
The purpose of this hearing was to highlight the models in Washington, D.C., for adult literacy and workforce education, and to provide suggestions about how District leaders can improve and capitalize on this foundation moving forward.
Cronen shared three insights, backed by evidence, about specialized types of adult education and workforce programming relevant to the District’s priorities:
- An important access point in a career pathway is attainment of a high school credential and the foundational knowledge and skills it reflects. High school credential preparation programs make a difference in learners’ likelihood of entering and persisting in postsecondary education;
- Offering postsecondary bridge programming and transition support—usually in combination with other types of instruction—has been associated with learner progress; and
- Integrated education and training and similar career pathway programs are promising approaches for helping adult learners obtain occupational skills and credentials.
Programs to support learners’ career pathways, such as those leading to secondary and postsecondary or occupational credential attainment, are promising approaches to expand in the District. To inform the District’s expansion efforts, data on local implementation and promising practices would also be useful to collect and explore, enabling decision makers to address skill gaps, enhance economic mobility, and support career advancement. Leveraging evidence-based insights ensures that resources are allocated effectively to strengthen the workforce and promote economic resilience.
