Congratulations to College of Western Idaho (CWI) Adult Education Teacher, Holly Bazarski, who has been selected by the Coalition on Adult Basic Education as Idaho’s 2026 State Advocate for Adult Education Fellow (SAAEF). The yearlong fellowship develops leadership, advocacy skills, research capacity, and networks of influence for adult educators across the country.
Through SAAEF, fellows engage in federal and state policy discussions and complete a series of training sessions focused on strengthening advocacy and leadership. The program builds a national network of leaders dedicated to advancing adult literacy and ensuring adult education remains a priority in legislative conversations.
With 26 years of experience as an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, Bazarski is excited about the fellowship and sees it as an opportunity to extend her impact beyond the classroom and advocate for the students she has long served.
“I was actually hesitant at first to apply for the fellowship because I don’t have any advocacy experience,” Bazarski said. “I decided to step outside my comfort zone because I believe strongly in the mission of Adult Education. I have seen first-hand how education can improve the lives of adult students. I am honored to represent Idaho as a COABE State Advocate for Adult Education Fellow 2026.”
CWI has a history of representation in the fellowship. Bazarski joins previous Idaho SAAEF fellows from CWI Adult Education, including Trevi Hardy, selected in 2022, and Sarah Strickley, selected in 2023.
CWI Adult Education programs serve thousands of students each year, providing GED preparation, English language instruction, digital literacy, college and career readiness, and workforce training. Through the SAAEF fellowship, Bazarski will help amplify student stories, strengthen advocacy efforts, and increase awareness of the transformative impact adult education has on individuals, families, and communities across the state.
