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.

Learn English in a small class environment or with a one-on-one tutor.
Online and in-person
Self-paced online programs

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

Work one-on-one with a tutor to improve your reading and writing skills
Online and in-person
Self-paced online programs

Additional Learning Opportunities- Throughout the year, PBALC offers informational and author live streams available on our social media pages, as well as special workshops available to PBALC students on a variety of topics, such as Health Literacy, Resume Building, and Citizenship, and more.

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

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

Since 1985, Permian Basin Adult Literacy Center has been an independent organization funded from grants, donations, and the fundraising efforts of our Board of Directors.

From 1985 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. In 2022, we outgrew and sold our building on Wall Street.

Adult Literacy Facts

Over 54% of American adults struggle with basic reading, math, and digital problem-solving skills
43 million Americans—nearly 1 in 5 adults—read below a 3rd grade level
- For these individuals, it is difficult or impossible to fill out job applications, take a driving test, vote, read to kids, or understand news articles, medical information, utility bills, contracts, court or jury service summons, or email communications from schools or agencies to support children and the family
- They do not lack intelligence, capability, or motivation: the problem is that too few receive help – only 10% of all adults in need of reading/writing education in the U.S. are participating in literacy programs. (Across the country, 50% of literacy support programs are currently at or beyond capacity.)

Why are PBALC's Services Essential?

Most counties in the Permian Basin are below the state and national average when it comes to Adult Literacy. This has a huge economic impact. 43% of Permian Basin adults with low literacy levels live in poverty. 65% of OUR students have incomes below the poverty line.

The Permian Basin population is growing, and we've seen a 20% increase in enrollments. In addition, our students are serious about literacy- class and study time has increased 26%! Increased literacy = more jobs, better pay, a vibrant workforce, and stronger communities!

What we do is working- In 2024, 63% of active students achieved a goal, and 85% of active students improved an assessment score.

PBALC's services are critical to helping Permian Basin adults reach their goals through literacy education.

“I feel very good now. I can understand. With Permian Basin Adult Literacy Center, I have the tools I need.” Rosa, Student

Program Offerings

One-to-one – A volunteer instructor 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. One-to-one meetings take place at approved community locations and online via Zoom.

Small Group Classes – A volunteer instructor or PBALC staff member instructs a small group (6-12 students), focusing on one subject (grammar, pronunciation, general English, etc.). Classes are scheduled in two semesters (16-18 weeks at a time) during the year. Registration dates and times will be posted on the PBALC website and on the PBALC Facebook page as they are scheduled. Small group, and class meetings take place at approved community locations and online via Zoom.
Self-Paced – A PBALC student works independently on one or more of the programs licensed to PBALC. 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. Self-paced programs can be accessed remotely via internet-enabled devices.