About Us

Who We Are

NAASLN is an association for those who serve adults with special learning needs. NAASLN members include educators, trainers, employers and human service providers. Our goal is to ensure that adults with special learning needs have the opportunities necessary to become successful lifelong learners.

What We Do

NAASLN advocates for adults with special learning needs in the areas of national policy development, legislation, and program funding.

  • NAASLN provides professional development and technical assistance to teachers, tutors and others who interact with adults with special learning needs in a teaching or training capacity.

  • NAASLN disseminates relevant information and research to its members via conferences and its web site.

  • NAASLN acts to increase awareness of the holistic nature and best practices for serving adults with special learning needs.

  • NAASLN promotes the field application of best practices for effective services.

Our Guiding Principles

  • NAASLN encourages adults with special learning needs to participate at all levels of NAASLN and in all initiatives.

  • NAASLN nonviolently challenges existing barriers to access, quality, and outcomes for adults with special learning needs.

  • NAASLN promotes self-sufficiency and self-advocacy.

  • NAASLN values diversity in culture and abilities.

  • NAASLN targets learner strengths and advocates for holistic services.

Our Policy Statement

NAASLN is committed to ensuring and expanding opportunities for adults with special learning needs to become successful and productive lifelong learners. To this end, NAASLN supports coordination of existing services, elimination of disincentives and development of additional funding to guarantee:

  • Assessments that are accessible and accurate.

  • Instruction that is effective in addressing each person’s special learning need or needs.

  • Essential supportive services that enable persons with special needs to increase their potential for meaningful and adequate employment.

  • Public and private commitment to preparing persons with special learning needs to achieve their life goals.

  • Quality professional development opportunities for paid and volunteer practitioners who serve adults with special learning needs.

  • Ongoing research that will provide more information on ways to achieve these goals.