About PBALC

PBALC offers services in the following areas:

English Language Learning (ELL) – Improve English language skills of adults, from beginner to advanced. Citizenship class is also available.

Adult Education & Literacy (AEL) – Encompasses reading, writing, math, and other fundamental skills.

Digital Literacy (DL) – Learn to navigate computers and utilize basic software.

Our Adult Literacy Program utilizes trained volunteer tutors and professional staff to provide individualized tutoring for adults, 18 years of age and older, in one-to-one, small group, and self-paced settings.

Special Services

Reading Comprehension Testing – PBALC provides a test of reading grade level for employment and education purposes. The fee is $15 per test. Tests can be scheduled by contacting our office at (432) 682-9693 or info@pbalc.org. All testers who meet the student requirements are welcome to improve their literacy skills by enrolling as an PBALC student.

Our Mission & Vision

The mission of PBALC is to develop the literacy skills of adults so they can achieve their goals, improve their lives, and impact our community.

Our vision is that all adults would be able to accomplish their learning goals, regardless of language or literacy barriers.

Our History

Permian Basin Adult Literacy Center was organized July 1, 1984 to June 30, 1985 with a one-year grant from the Texas Education Agency. Since July 1, 1985, we have been an independent organization funded from grants, donations, and the fundraising efforts of our Board of Directors.

From 1984 to 2000, Midland College donated office space to PBALC on its main campus. Following a capital campaign in 2000, we moved to our own facility, the “Literacy House,” at 1709 West Wall Street in Midland, TX.

“The instructors are very patient here…and you feel very comfortable asking questions.” Shirley Fox

Program Offerings

One-to-one – A volunteer tutor assists one student in reaching their personal literacy goals. PBALC staff guide the pair in selecting appropriate materials and curriculum that will best help the student.

Small Groups – A volunteer tutor facilitates a group of students with similar levels, goals, or interests. The focus of the groups is to build community, address shared issues, and practice English conversation (for ELL).

Classes – A volunteer instructor or PBALC staff member instructs a small group (6-12 students), focusing on one subject (grammar, pronunciation, computer usage, math, etc.). Classes are scheduled in sessions (8-12 weeks at a time) throughout the year. Registration dates times will be posted on the PBAL website and on the PBALC Facebook page as they are scheduled.
Self-Paced – An PBALC student works independently on one or more of the programs licensed to PBAL. Such programs assist the student in practicing and improving their skills in a variety of areas (reading, language learning, vocabulary building, computer skills, and more). PBALC staff monitor student usage and progress, providing encouragement and support. All program offerings are designed to last one-and-a-half to three hours each week. One-to-one, small group, and small class meetings can take place either at the PBALC Literacy House (1709 W. Wall St.) or at approved community locations. Most self-paced programs can either be accessed at the Literacy House Computer Lab or remotely via internet-enabled devices (some programs may only be accessed at the Literacy House).