ANNAPOLIS, MD (Feb. 3, 2006)-Comptroller William Donald Schaefer today announced his strong support for the Maryland Department of Education's (MSDE) "Stepping Up to the Future" report which highlights the needs and benefits of adult education programs in Maryland.

"It's startling to know that almost 800,000 people in Maryland don't have a high school diploma, and 20 percent of that number don't have the English skills to get one," said Comptroller Schaefer. "The return from investing in programs to help people learn and speak English and get a high school diploma can make a real difference in people's lives."

Even at full capacity, the MSDE currently can help only 9 percent of people in Maryland who are English language learners (ELL). There are 12,020 English language learners enrolled in programs to improve their English literacy skills; 2,200 more are on enrollment waiting lists for English as a Second Language (ESL) programs.

"You can expect an annual salary of $22,000 in Maryland if you can't speak English. You can't support your family on that. We need to invest now. It's the right thing to do because the cost of enabling people to speak English will never be any less."

Visit the Maryland Department of Education.

CONTACT:
Michael D. Golden, 410-260-7305
Kevin P. Kane, 410-260-7578