Illiteracy

The Times report on illiteracy in California, the U.S. and the world (Sept. 11) stated that it is estimated that 60% to 80% of the U.S. prison population is functionally illiterate.

Are there any programs aimed at this problem? It seems that there must be a way to teach those inmates who have a better grasp of basic reading and writing skills to help those who do not. Both could get credit for time off their sentences for participating in the program.

Also, each participant (both tutor and student) would gain a better self-image from what he could accomplish through the program. It would not only help to solve the illiteracy problem, but also help fight one of the reasons people turn to crime.

KELLY RUSSELL

Reseda