In the 55-year history of LSW, this may be the first time we have had to navigate a pandemic. We want to start by wishing everyone safety and health during this time. LSW continues to be proactive in our response to COVID-19, taking in additional information day-by-day to ensure that we are in a position to learn through this experience in the same way we encourage lifelong learning through our mission and work. 

LSW staff rose to this challenge in a big way over the last two weeks. Nearly 64% of our programming is now being offered online. Another 27% is being delivered one-on-one by our wonderful volunteer tutors and staff who continue to work with their students over the phone. In a short period of time, we were able to move 91% of our programming to distance and online learning models. This is crucial for the students who continue to strive toward their academic goals of increasing their employability, completing their high school credential, improving their English language skills, and entering post-secondary education. These models will continue to be refined and evaluated to ensure that we are doing the best we can with what we have. Staff continue to work remotely to consistently provide academic support to students and guidance to volunteers. 

If there is a silver lining to this Coronavirus crisis, it is that we are recognizing the importance of incorporating even more blended learning options in the future. Blended learning is a combination of in-person, telecommunication, and online instruction. The spirit of “each one, teach one” remains strong. We will have to reimagine and redefine service delivery in the upcoming months. We see this as an opportunity to create programming that adapts to the current crisis and ensures that we are not missing the real-life lesson that is before us. We can and we will do more for our students.

 

There are two things we would love for you to consider during this time: 

We will continue to be transparent about our programmatic and financial health, and where we need help and support. This is a new world and we believe that literacy and education will be more crucial than ever. We know that when we get through this, adult literacy will play a key role in rebuilding our economy and ensuring that adults have equitable access to employment and training. 

Volunteer of the Month

Kerry Leet

Wells Fargo

As an avid reader who has worked and lived in Waukesha County for most of my life, I had no awareness of the number of adults in SE Wisconsin whose lives are impacted by issues with literacy. It wasn’t until 2012, when I joined the board of Greater Waukesha Literacy, that my horizons broadened and I could see the tremendous impact this initiative has on the community. Now that GWL is part of Literacy Services of Wisconsin, I am excited to become a board member for LSW and collaborate together as we expand and enhance literacy services to the residents of Waukesha County!

 

I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations/Communication from North Central College in Naperville, IL. I worked as the Director of Marketing for a professional speaker before moving into the world of financial services contact centers. As an analytic consultant in the Wealth & Investment Management area of Wells Fargo, I provide analysis and guidance in call center strategy and workforce management.

 

Over the years, I’ve seen the look of pride and accomplishment in the faces of the students that have participated in literacy programs and the volunteers that have assisted them. I’ve heard amazing stories about the life transformations that have occurred for many that have benefitted from literacy services. I also know, firsthand, the importance of a community that can provide strong candidates for any open employment positions that need to be filled. I look forward to continued successes and life-changing moments.

 

My husband, Dominic, and I live in Sussex and have 2 adult children. We enjoy traveling, trivia, and movies, and if any of it involves Disney – even better!