Low literacy rates in Bay State

(WWLP) - Statistics released this week show that more than half a million adults--ten percent of people 16 and older-- in Massachusetts lack basic reading skills and have trouble understanding important documents like doctor's instructions and jury duty pamphlets.

The National Center for Education Statistics released the 2003 statistics this week. State officials say that figure appears accurate, but some literacy advocates say the problem is much worse in poor areas than the data suggest.

The latest information, however, shows improvement from the federal agency's 1992 estimate, which showed 13 percent of state adults had low literacy levels.

State officials recommend that people take adult education classes to improve their reading skills. If you or someone you know need help, visit www.valleyopp.com.