During the latter part of the 1970’s a group of adults began to assist students under the auspices of the Association for Children with Learning Disabilities (A.C.L.D.). Before many years had passed some adults began to seek similar help. In 1980 an effort led by Bill Kranenburg and others began to bring the need for a separate program for illiterate adults to the attention of the community. Subsequently the Adult Learning Opportunity student programs were both being offered at C.K.S.S.



In 1984 the incidence of adult illiteracy in North America was receiving increasing attention from all sectors of society governments, the private sector, educators and the public at large. Adult Basic Education was created in November of 1984.

Thus began the Adult Language and Learning Program that we have today.



From a very loosely organized but effective program using minimal staff and as many volunteers as could be found, the program gradually increased both in size and organized support.

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Adult Basic Education was formed in November 1984 with 21 members representing 16 community organizations. The council was housed in a converted storeroom at C.K.S.S.

By January 1987 the program had developed to the point that an appropriate office with both a visible and walk in accessible location was required. The Waymur Building on Fifth Street was selected. Over the years the office has been enlarged but remains in the Waymur Building.

On April 6, 2006 the Chatham Kent Council on Adult Basic Education changed its name to Adult Language and Learning to better reflect the services offered.

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