English for Speakers of Other Languages & High School Equivalency Courses (GED/HiSET)
The Adult Learning Center offers two programs for adult learners: ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) for English Language Learners and High School Equivalency courses for those seeking a high school equivalency credential. We help students learn the skills needed to achieve educational, employment, and professional goals. Our free courses include instruction in digital literacy, career exploration, workforce preparation, and professional development, math and science concepts, civics, critical reading and writing, and evidence-based instructional practices. We also offer individualized college and career advising for all students. In general, we provide students the academic and life skills needed to thrive in future endeavors.
Classes are free. To participate you must:
-Be a resident of Massachusetts
-Be 16 years of age or over
-If under 18 an official withdrawal from your school is needed
- Career and College Advising
- Workforce Preparation
- Job Talks from Local Employers, Non-Profits, and Area Professionals
- Tutoring Program
- Individualized and Holistic Support Services
- Google Chromebook Lending Program to Students in Need
- Instructional Methods
- Digital Literacy Curriculum
- Massachusetts Standards-Aligned Curriculum and Evidence-Based Instructional Methods
College and Career Readiness Curriculum
Classes prepare students to meet the demands of today’s workforce and for a possible college education. Students learn critical skills essential to succeed in the 21st century
Adult Education High School Equivalency Courses
We offer three levels of High School Equivalency courses. Classes prepare students to pass a High School Equivalency Exam (GED/HISET) and earn a High School Equivalency Credential. Classes provide students with a well-rounded education, helping students learn the skills necessary to succeed in future educational and career goals. We offer rigorous, high-quality instruction in math, writing skills, reading comprehension, civics, digital literacy, professional development, and career and college exploration.
Students have access to individualized academic support and college and career advising. Classes meet in-person with possible remote options depending on barriers to access. In addition, we offer a math tutoring program for students needing additional instructional support in math.
MassSTEP ESOL Welding Program
Community Action, Inc. offers a 16-week ESOL and Welding course in partnership with Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School. This course trains students in welding and provides contextualized ESOL instruction preparing English language learners for successful future employment in the welding industry. In addition to hands-on skills training in welding practices and techniques, students will earn industry-recognized credentials in OSHA 10 and Hot Work Safety Training. Contextualized ESOL instruction will enhance and support student success as students will attain the language, civics, and workforce skills necessary to secure future employment as a welder. With our employment partners in welding and manufacturing, students will also explore job opportunities and career avenues within the welding industry.
Requirements:
- English Language Learner (Intermediate or Advanced English Language Skills)
- MA Resident
- Over 16 years of age
- Commitment to attend all classes for the duration of the 16-week program
Schedule
Classes meet in the evenings M-F. ESOL classes are on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 5-8pm; Welding classes are Wednesday and Thursday at Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School
Our program is funded in part by Adult and Community Learning Services at the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.