CAEAA - All Things Adult Ed

In this special episode of All Things Adult Ed, host ToyBee sits down with Dr. Carolyn Zachry, Director of Adult Education at the California Department of Education, as she prepares to retire at the end of the school year.Dr. Zachry has been a steady and collaborative leader for California’s adult education system, supporting adult schools, consortia, and educators who serve hundreds of thousands of adult learners each year. Known for her open communication and commitment to the field—including her regular Tuesday morning conversations with adult education leaders—Dr. Zachry has helped strengthen connections across the state.In this conversation, she reflects on:Her journey into adult educationThe accomplishments and challenges during her tenureLessons learned from leading a statewide systemThe importance of collaboration in adult educationHer hopes and advice for the future of the fieldThis episode is both a celebration of leadership and a reflection on the work ahead to ensure adult learners across California continue to have access to education, workforce pathways, and new opportunities.Sponsored by myOneFlow 

In this episode of All Things Adult Ed, Dr. Thoibi Rublaitus, President of California Adult Education Administrators Association (CAEAA) sits down with Adam Peck, Executive Director of California Workforce Association, for a timely conversation on strengthening and scaling Adult Education - Workforce partnerships across California. Drawing on Central Valley experience and statewide leadership, the discussion explores what's working and how Adult Ed leaders can proactively align amid potential federal shifts affecting WIOA Title II. Sponsored by myOneFlow

In this episode, Thoibi Rublaitus speaks with Bryan Seck, Executive Director of Lincoln Literacy, Nebraska, about scaling literacy programs, leveraging volunteers, and building sustainable funding models. A must-listen for adult education leaders preparing for WIOA Title II uncertainty and looking for fresh ideas on community partnerships and workforce integration. Sponsored by myOneFlow

The months of June-July were truly anxiety-ridden for most of us Adult Education Administrators because of the temporary impound of federal funds. Sharon Bonney, CEO of Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE), has been one of the most instrumental leaders at the national level. She led a team that traveled across the Midwest, visiting numerous legislators from both sides of the aisle, advocating for and elevating the value of adult education. Her leadership and tenacity with data and stories of adult education led to the release of federal funds for 2025-26 from impoundment, not just the 231 funds but also the 243 funds. Listen to Sharon Bonney's conversation with Steve Curiel to gain a deeper understanding of her organization and what we can learn from the COABE. Sponsored by myOneFlow

In this episode, CAEAA President Steve Curiel discusses the Governor's May Revise and its potential impact on Adult Education with Dawn Keopke, McHugh Koepke Padron Government Relations, legislative advocate for CCAE and CAEAA. Sponsored by myOneFlow

CAEAA's first episode of All Things Adult Ed, where we dive into the most pressing issues facing adult education leaders across California.Guest: Steve CurielHost: Thoibi Rublaitus Sponsor: My OneFlow Sponsored by myOneFlow