TALAE History

The Texas Association for Literacy and Adult Education was formed in 1968 as the Texas Association for Continuing Adult Education.  The purpose of TACAE was four-fold, Professional Development, Public Relations, Legislative, and Research.

At no time in the history of this country has the need for more reliable knowledge concerning education been as keenly felt as it is today.  Ever since the launching of Sputnik and for several years prior to this astonishing venture, schools have been changing their functions, their curricula, and their methods to accommodate ever-expanding demands from a society insistent upon quality education for all of its children.  In recent years, faced with being labeled as a “nation at risk,” America’s attention has also been given to adult literacy.  Thus, adult education is now faced with some of the same issues and principles surrounding quality and excellence in education youth.  A lack of valid knowledge not only allows unexamined practices to continue but also prevents a number of worthwhile educational innovations from occurring.

-- From the T.A.C.A.E. Handbook

In 1993, T.A.C.A.E. became TALAE, the Texas Association for Literacy and Adult Education.  Members felt that the new name more clearly defined the mission and purpose of the organization.  Professional development for adult educators is the primary emphasis of the association

Adult education has for a long time played a significant role in education the populace of this society.  If this movement is to continue, sound research must be initiated, good and solid education programs must be developed, quality education and accountability must be emphasized, and adult educators must be encouraged to continue their education in order to stay in tune with the needs, changes, issues and trends in the field.  The quality of adult education in Texas will improve only as the competencies and qualifications of teachers and directors are improved.

-- From the T.A.C.A.E. Handbook