In Hartford, the need for adult education is among the highest in the state. Thousands of residents lack high school diplomas, and many are highly credentialed professionals from other countries who cannot return to their fields until they master the English language. The result is a growing demand for programs that not only teach but truly transform lives. That’s where we stepped in – fully immersing ourselves in the lives of those who attend Hartford Public Schools Adult Education Center.
Behind these statistics are real people with powerful stories. Parents who want to show their children what’s possible. Grandparents who want to make their families proud. Adults who embody resilience, determination and the strength of community.
Hartford Public Schools asked SIP to help address critical gaps while building on the strengths of their adult education program. Our role was clear: bring fresh perspective, cross-sector expertise and practical strategies to move the work forward.
With a talented and diverse Partner team, we worked alongside staff, students and leaders to:
- Develop strategies to improve student outcomes, workforce readiness and enrollment
- Conduct in-depth stakeholder research with teachers, students and administrators to elevate the voices of those closest to the work
- Create a framework for tracking goals, strategies and measurable outcomes that align with state requirements
- Recommend both immediate and long-term strategies, including partnerships with workforce boards and childcare providers
Through dozens of conversations and focus groups, SIP had the privilege of hearing directly from students, teachers and staff. What emerged were not just themes, but deeply human stories that shaped how we thought about solutions.
This project revealed the humanity at the heart of adult education. Students and teachers lifted one another up, building a community rooted in encouragement and shared success. Many learners returned to school for their children, determined to model persistence and create a legacy of education for the next generation. Even in the face of barriers—transportation challenges, waitlists and the daily juggle of work, school and family—participants pressed forward with resilience and optimism.
Above all, the process reminded us that when people are invited to the table, they show up not just as program participants, but as partners in shaping their own futures. As Partner Laurie Saft Ginsberg shared, “This work goes far beyond jobs or diplomas – it’s about restoring pride, rebuilding confidence and empowering people to recognize their true worth, both in their communities and in themselves.”
A special shoutout to the incredible and diverse Partner team led by Alycia Angus, who ensured every voice was heard and brought together a unique set of skills that worked seamlessly in partnership: Laurie Saft Ginsberg, Anne Buehl, Deb Brennan, Sue Henneberry and Mike Liao.