The Literacy Council of Bowie and Miller Counties
Founded in 1986 through the Texarkana Public Library, the Literacy Council has served as the area's leading community education center helping thousands of residents earn their GEDs, improve their ability to find work, and enhance job performance. Students can learn a diverse set of knowledge and skills including math, reading, technology, foreign language, and test preparation, among others.
The Literacy Council is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is governed by a board of directors and is managed by an executive director. The Council also is proud to partner with Americorps to have two part-time volunteers who work with students. Additionally, the Council is proud to have interns from Texas A&M University and community volunteers on its team.
Although the Council has traditionally focused on adult education, last fall we expanded our services to also include programming options for teens and children. All of our classes, programs, and services are completely free, and we are fully funded by the kindness of those in the Texarkana community, along with grants.
Our Team
Jenny Walker, Executive Director
As a Texarkana native, Jenny believes that changing the world begins with loving the people in our own community. She is a first-generation college student who personally knows the role that education plays in helping change the course of a person's life. She takes the responsibility of her position very seriously, and she is passionate about student success and using education to help empower those in poverty. She has worked in education for 18 years in all levels including elementary, secondary, and higher education. She is working to earn her doctorate in education leadership at Texas A&M University - Texarkana, where she focuses her research on educating students from low-socioeconomic homes. She holds a master's degree in education administration from A&M, and she earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. She graduated from Liberty-Eylau High School, and is married to Greg, her high school sweetheart. They have two children and a dog, and the Walkers live in Texarkana.
Volunteers
Elaine Willis
Elaine Willis
Elaine Willis
Elaine serves as our office manager, and she keeps us all organized and running smoothly. Elaine has a master's degree in Instructional Technology and a bachelor's degree in General Studies from Texas A&M University - Texarkana.
Eric Nard
Elaine Willis
Elaine Willis
Eric is the newest member of our Americorps team, and he works hard to make sure students have everything they need in order to be successful. As an education major, he hopes to use his experience at the Literacy Council to prepare him for a career as a history teacher and coach.
Brian Wilson
Elaine Willis
Brian Wilson
Brian spends a lot of his time working with our Council and is a man with many talents. In addition to helping with general office duties, he also works with students, makes hand-made items for fundraisers, and his positive attitude keeps us all smiling.