SECTION 1: THE SYSTEM FOR ADULT BASIC ... - SABES

SECTION 1: 

THE SYSTEM FOR ADULT 

BASIC EDUCATION SUPPORT 

Training Leaders in Adult Basic Education 

SABES promotes high quality adult basic education services through training, 

support, and resources that improve the skills and knowledge of practitioners and 

strengthen programs. Through a combination of partnership and leadership, we develop 

the field's capacity to equip learners to succeed in the economy, contribute more fully to their 

families and communities, develop leadership skills, and reach personal learning goals. 

S.A.B.E.S., the System for Adult Basic Education Support, is a comprehensive training 

and technical assistance initiative for educators and programs. S.A.B.E.S. is about 

developing the skills, talents, and knowledge of Adult Basic Education practitioners so 

that they may provide exemplary service to adult learners. 

S.A.B.E.S. services are delivered through five Regional Support Centers located at 

community colleges in the West, Central, Northeast, Southeast, and Greater Boston 

areas of the state. At each regional center, the staff determines the professional 

development needs of the educators and then develops a variety of training 

opportunities to meet those needs. At any given time, a variety of activities are occurring 

around the state. A Central Resource Center, located in Boston, coordinates 

development of statewide activities. 

See the screen shot of the SABES home page – www.sabes.org – on the next page. 

From this website, adult literacy educators can visit the SABES statewide calendar to 

see what training activities are scheduled for each region and register for the one(s) that 

are of particular interest to them. This gives each practitioner the ability to customize 

their own individual professional development plan. 

Our regional newsletter - The Pipeline of WMass. – can now be accessed from this 

website. 

Western Massachusetts Profiles of Regional Adult Literacy Programs, summer 2009 edition 1

SABES Home 

“Training Leaders in Adult Basic Education" 

SABES promotes high quality adult basic education services through training, 

support, and resources that improve the skills and knowledge of practitioners and 

strengthen programs. Through a combination of partnership and leadership, we 

develop the field's capacity to equip learners to succeed in the economy, contribute 

more fully to their families and communities, develop leadership skills, and reach 

personal learning goals. 

Library Catalog 

Literacy Conferences 

SMARTT 

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Professional and organizational development services are delivered through five 

Regional Support Centers located at community colleges in the West, Central, 

Northeast, Southeast, and Greater Boston areas of the state. At each regional center, 

a Regional Coordinator helps programs determine the needs of the educators and 

then develops a variety of training opportunities to meet those needs. At any given 

time, a variety of activities are occurring around the state. A Central Resource Center, 

located in Boston, coordinates development of statewide activities. 

Visit our website www//sabes.org to see What's New and 

Noteworthy at SABES 

SABES Library Catalog - To view resources, visit the library catalog and click on "New 

Materials." Find our borrower registration info on a one-page PDF flyer. 

Job postings 

SABES Year-at-a-Glance Calendar - If you like to plan ahead, this chart lists nearly all of our 

FY2008 events, arranged by IPQ and then by quarter. To register for specific events, visit our 

detailed event calendar or call (413) 552-2576. 

The Problem Solver semi-annual math newsletter from Western Mass., filled with 

news blurbs and hands-on lesson plans. 

Field Notes 



EXPLANATION OF LITERACY 

CATEGORIES 

The following is a brief explanation of the Descriptive Information gathered in this 

directory. Each description is intended to give an overview of that program and does not 

attempt to provide a concise profile. Types of Services vary from program to program, 

but were categorized by one of the following: 

ABE 

Adult Basic Education consists of classes in reading, writing, and math. ABE 

classes are usually equated to the grade level of 0-4.9 and 5-8 (5-8 is 

sometimes referred to as Pre-GED). 

ASE (GED or ADP) 

Adult Secondary Education, also referred to as the GED 

(General Equivalency Diploma) and ADP (Alternative Diploma 

Program) are preparation classes given in English, (Spanish or 

French) for the high school equivalency examination. 

ESOL English as a Second Language (Beginning, SPL 0-4; Intermediate, SPL 5-6; 

Advanced, SPL 7-10) consists of classes in learning to speak, read, and 

write 

English for those who English is not their first language. 

Citizenship 

Classes provided to help immigrants pass their citizenship 

examination. 

Learning Disabilities 

Instruction for those determined to have a physical, 

emotional or psychological barrier to learning. 

Pre-ESOL Literacy 

Classes which provide basic education in the native language 

of the learner. 




REGIONAL LITERACY SERVICES 





Towns of 

Western 

Massachusetts 

Supported by 

SABES/West 

LEGEND 

(B) – Berkshire County 

(F) – Franklin County 

(HD) – Hampden County 

(HS) – Hampshire County 

Adams (B) 

Agawam (HD) 

Alford (B) 

Amherst (HS) 

Ashfield (F) 

Becket (B) 

Belchertown (HS) 

Bernardston (F) 

Blandford (HD) 

Brimfield (HD) 

Buckland (F) 

Charlemont (F) 

Cheshire (B) 

Chester (HD) 

Chesterfield (HS) 

Chicopee (HD) 

Clarksburg (B) 

Colrain (F) 

Conway (F) 

Cummington (HS) 

Dalton (B) 

Deerfield (F) 

East Longmeadow (HD) 

Easthampton (HS) 

Egremont (B) 

Erving (F) 

Florida (B) 

Gill (F) 

Goshen (HS) 

Granby (HS) 

Granville (HD) 

Great Barrington (HD) 

Greenfield (F) 

Hadley (HS) 

Hampden (HD) 

Hancock (B) 

Hatfield (HS) 

Hawley (F) 

Heath (F) 

Hinsdale (B) 

Holland (HD) 

Holyoke (HD) 

Huntington (HS) 

Lanesborough (B) 

Lee (B) 

Lenox (B) 

Leverett (F) 

Leyden (F) 

Longmeadow (HD) 

Ludlow (HD) 

Middlefield (HS) 

Monroe (F) 

Monson (HD) 

Montague (F) 

Monterey (B) 

Montgomery (HD) 

Mount Washington (B) 

New Ashford (B) 

New Marlborough (B) 

New Salem (F) 

North Adams (B) 

Northampton (HS) 

Northfield (F) 

Orange (F) 

Otis (B) 

Palmer (HD) 

Pelham (HS) 

Peru (B) 

Pittsfield (B) 

Plainfield (HS) 

Richmond (B) 

Rowe (F) 

Russell (D) 

Sandisfield (B) 

Savoy (B) 

Sheffield (B) 

Shelburne (F) 

Shutesbury (F) 

South Hadley (HS) 

Southampton (HS) 

Southwick (HD) 

Springfield (HD) 

Stockbridge (B) 

Sunderland (F) 

Tolland (HD) 

Tyringham (B) 

Wales (HD) 

Ware (HS) 

Warwick (F) 

Washington (B) 

Wendell (F) 

West Springfield (HD) 

West Stockbridge 

Westfield (HD) 

Westhampton (HS) 

Whately (F) 

Wilbraham (HD) 

Williamsburg (HS) 

Williamstown (B) 

Windsor (B) 

Worthington (HS) 



County Listing of Adult Literacy Programs 

BERKSHIRE 

Berkshire ABE - Berkshire County Sheriff’s Office Jail and House of Correction 

Berkshire Community College - GED 

Berkshire Community College – Project Link 

Berkshire Immigrant Center 

Community Transition Program* 

Corporation for Public Management 

Literacy Network of South Berkshire 

Literacy Volunteers of Berkshire County, Inc. 

Northern Berkshire ABE Program 

Pittsfield Adult Learning Center 

South Berkshire Adult Education Program 

Franklin-Hampshire 

Center for New Americans - Amherst 

Center for New Americans – Greenfield 

Center for New Americans - Northampton 

EDCO Collaborative/Massachusetts Migrant Education Program 

Franklin County House of Correction and Jail 

Greenfield Community College – ESOL 

Greenfield Community College – Next Step Up 

Hampshire County Jail and House of Correction 

International Language Institute of Massachusetts (ILI)* 

Jones Library – ESOL Center 

The Literacy Project - (Administrative Office) 

The Literacy Project - Amherst Adult Learning Center 

The Literacy Project - Charboneau Learning Center 

The Literacy Project - North Quabbin Adult Education Center 

The Literacy Project - Pioneer Valley Adult Education Center 

Reunion Center 

Southern Hilltowns Adult Education Center 

UMass. Labor/Management Workplace Education 

Ware Adult Education Center 


COUNTY LISTING OF ADULT LITERACY PROGRAMS: (Continued) 

HAMPDEN 

Community Adolescent Resource and Education (CARE) Center 

Community Education Project 

Corporation for Public Management (CPM) - Supported Work Program 

Gray House, Inc., The 

Hampden County Sheriff's Department - Pre-Release 

Hampden County Sheriff's Department and Correctional Center 

Holyoke Adult Learning Opportunities (HALO Center) 

Holyoke Community College – ABE/College Transition Program 

Holyoke Community College – Adult Learning Center 

Holyoke Community College – Certified Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide Training 

Program 

Holyoke Community College –CLEP Testing Services 

Holyoke Community College – Community Services 

Holyoke Community College – ESOL 

Holyoke Community College – GED Testing Registration 

Holyoke Community College – Jump Start Certificate Program 

Holyoke Tutor-Mentor Program 

HolyokeWorks 

Jewish Family Services 

Ludlow Area Adult Learning Center 

Lutheran Community Services of Southern New England 

Massachusetts Career Development Institute (MCDI) 

Massachusetts Career Development Institute (MCDI) - 

Adult Homeless Education Program 

New England Farm Workers' Council 

New England Farm Workers' Council – GED Program 

New England Farm Workers' Council – WIA Youth Program 

Pathways to Family Success 

Puerto Rican Cultural Center 

Read/Write/Now Adult Learning Center 


Springfield Adult Education 

Springfield Technical Community College – Adult Education Center 

Springfield Technical Community College - ESOL 

Springfield Technical Community College - GED 

Springfield Technical Community College - Transitions 

Top Floor Learning, Inc. 

Training Resources of America 

Valley Opportunity Council – Adult Education Program (EOC) 

Westover Job Corp Center 


Adult Literacy Services Available by County 

ABE/ASE 

BERKSHIRE 








Charboneau Learning Center 



The Literacy Project – (Administrative Office) 

The Literacy Project – Amherst Adult Learning Center 

The Literacy Project - North Quabbin Adult Learning Center 

The Literacy Project – Pioneer Valley Adult Learning Center 

The Literacy Project – Ware Adult Learning Center 



HAMPDEN 



Gray House, Inc., The* 

Hampden County Sheriff’s Department – Re-release 


Holyoke Adult Learning Opportunities (HALO Center) 

Holyoke Community College – Adult Learning Services @ CareerPoint 


HolyokeWorks 


Massachusetts Career Development Institute (MCDI) – Adult Homeless 

Education Program 






Training Resources of America, Inc. 



ADULT LITERACY SERVICE AVAILABLE BY COUNTY: (Continued) 

ABE/College Transition Programs 

Note: Each of these programs has some “transition” component -- ranging from just counseling 

services to actual classes. Check with specific sites for what services each location offers. 

BERKSHIRE 

Berkshire Community College - Project Link 


Greenfield Community College – Next Step Up 

HAMPDEN 


Holyoke Community College – ABE/College Transition Program 

Puerto Rican Cultural Center (SEADS) 

Springfield technical Community College – Transitions 



Citizenship – Prep/Assistance 

BERKSHIRE 

Berkshire Immigrant Center, The 



Center for New Americans – Amherst 



Jones Library 

Hampden 


Valley Opportunity Council – Adult Education Program (summer only) 



ESOL 

BERKSHIRE 









Center for New Americans - Greenfield 


EDCO Collaborative/Massachusetts Migrant Education Program 

Greenfield Community College – ESOL 

International Language Institute of Massachusetts (ILI)* 

Jones Library – ESOL Center 


Hampden 



Gray House, Inc., The* 

Hampden County Sheriff’s Department – Pre-release 


Holyoke Adult Learning Opportunity (HALO Center) 


Holyoke Community College - ESOL Program 


HolyokeWorks 


Literacy Volunteer Network (LVN) 


Lutheran Community Services of Southern New England 


Massachusetts Career Development Institute (MCDI) - Adult Homeless 




ESOL (Continued) 

HAMPDEN 

New England Farm Workers' Council 



Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) - ESOL 



Westover Job Corp 



Family Literacy 

BERKSHIRE 






Pioneer Valley Adult Education Center 

Hampden 





Job Readiness Skills/Workplace Education 

BERKSHIRE 



FRANKLIN-HAMPSHIRE 



HAMPDEN 

Corporation for Public Management (CPM) – Supported Work Program 

Hampden County Pre-Release 

Holyoke Community College – Jump Start Certificate Program 

Holyoke Community College – Jump Start CNA/HHA Training Program 

HolyokeWorks 

Massachusetts Career Development Institute (MCDI) / Springfield 

New England Farm workers Council – WIA Youth Program 



HAMPSHIRE 




Native Language Literacy 

HAMPDEN 


New England Farm Workers Council 



Pre-GED/GED 

BERKSHIRE 








FRANKLIN-HAMPSHIRE 





Jones Library - ESOL Center 

The Literacy Project – (Administrative Office) 



The Literacy Project - North Quabbin Adult Education Center 




Ware Adult Education Center 

HAMPDEN 

Community Adolescent Resource and Education (CARE) Center (English 

& Spanish) 

Community Education Program 

Gray House, Inc. The 


Hampden County Sheriff’s Department and Correctional Center 

Holyoke Adult Learning Opportunities (HALO) 

Holyoke Community College – Adult Learning Center 


Holyoke Community College – GED Registration 


HolyokeWorks 


Massachusetts Career Development Institute (MCDI) - Adult Homeless 



New England Farm Workers' Council – WIA Program 








Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) – GED 






PROGRAM PROFILES 



BERKSHIRE COUNTY 

Pittsfield 

Berkshire ABE - 

Berkshire County Sheriff’s Office Jail and House of Correction 

Program/Treatment Department 

467 Cheshire Road 

Pittsfield, MA 01201 

413-443-7220 x1314 

E-mail address: Helen.denat@sdb.state.mass.us 

PROGRAM HOURS: 

Class Hours: 

Monday-Friday 

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

SERVICES PROVIDED: 

Monday Evenings 

6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. 

Adult ABE/GED, Graphic Communications, Life Skills, Computer Literacy. Literature, Art, and 

Testing/Assessment. Education services are fully integrated with the Programs/Treatment 

Department service delivery, which includes Case Management, Mental Health and Substance 

Abuse programming for individuals and groups. 

POPULATION SERVED AND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: 

Individuals incarcerated at the Jail and House of Correction 

GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE OF SERVICES: 

Inmates sentenced by the Berkshire County Court System. 

COST: 

None 

LOCAL AFFILIATES: 

None 


STAFF: 

Julia Sullivan 

Neil Baker 

John Bianchi 

Deborah Callahan 

Donald Clark 

Joyce Cutler 

Jeanne Davidson 

Helen Denat 

Marilee Finn 

Marilyn Kirby 

Phyllis Kornfeld 

Kathy Mason 

Betty Palucci 

Fran Soucie 

ADA Programs/Treatment 

Literature Teacher 

Transitional Planning Counselor 

ABE Teacher 

Graphics Communication Teacher 

Reading Teacher 

Special Education (SEIS) Teacher 

Lead ABE/GED Teacher 

Education Counselor 

ABE/Pre-GED/GED Teacher 

Art Teacher 

ABE/Pre-GED/GED Teacher 

Life Skills Teacher 

Literature Teacher 

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: 

None 



Pittsfield 

Berkshire Community College – GED 

Koussevitzky Arts Center (K-213) 

2 nd Floor 

1350 West Street 


413-499-4660 x1655/1656 

E-mail address: lrecko@berkshirecc.edu 


Monday-Friday 

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 pm. 

Some Saturday testing – GED twice per year on Saturdays on main campus and Thursday late 

afternoon testing for Berkshire Community College placement test. 


GED Testing; placement testing, CLEP, DANTES, on-line course testing, TOEFL 


Any student who meets the eligibility requirements to test/assess can be served 


Primarily Berkshire County; GED given twice per year in North Adams and Great Barrington as well 

as monthly on main campus. GED testing is held as needed at Berkshire County House of 

Correction. 

COST: 

GED - $65 per testing program CLEP - $85 

DANTES - $80 TOEFL – approximately $125 


For GED: MCLA, Berkshire Community College’s South County Center in Great Barrington as 

well as Berkshire County House of Correction 

STAFF: 

Liz Recko Morrison 

Coordinator 


GED Testing in English and Spanish 




Pittsfield 

Berkshire Community College - 

Project Link 

1350 West Street 


413-499-4660 x2174 

E-mail address: jhennessey@berkshirecc.edu 


Class Hours: 

Monday / Wednesday 

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. 


Tuesday/Thursday 

3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. 

No Classes on Friday 

Helps students transition between ABE programs and college 


Adults (age 16 and over) and not enrolled in high school. Must have a GED or ADP earned in 

Massachusetts or ESOL students from Massachusetts DESE-ESOL programs who have not 

attended a college or university in their home country. 


Residents of Berkshire County 

COST: 

None 


• Berkshire Community College 

STAFF: 

Joseph Hennessey 

Coordinator 



Program provides an opportunity for ABE students to get a successful start with college. 



Pittsfield 


First Baptist Church 

88 South Street, Room 202 


413-445-4881 

E-mail address: info@berkshireic.com 


Call program for current information 


A resource and advocacy center for immigrants; provides Immigratory law advice; Citizenship 

exam preparation; ESOL/Civic classes and referrals to community resources. 


Immigrants 


Berkshire County 

COST: 

Citizenship classes free for immigrants 


• Berkshire Community College. 

STAFF: 

Hilary Greene 

Lola Greene 

Brooke Meade 

Program Director 

Education Director 

Outreach Coordinator 



The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires founded the Berkshire Immigrant Center (formerly 

known as the New American Citizenship Coalition) in 1997 to assist Berkshire County 

immigrants, regardless of race and religious affiliation, to become American citizens. Over the 

past few years the Center has evolved into an office of immigrant services in order to address 

the wider needs of the local immigrant and refugee population. The Berkshire Immigrant Center 

(BIC) is the only program in Berkshire County which works exclusively to meet the challenges 

faced by our rapidly growing immigrant community. 


HAMPSHIRE COUNTY 

Amherst 


Morning classes. Call site for specific hours 


Center for New Americans - Amherst 

Amherst, MA 01002 

413-427-6543 

E-mail address: cnaamh@rcn.com 

Free ESOL classes in the beginning, advanced beginning/intermediate, high intermediate and 

advanced levels, general resource and referral information, one-on-one tutors, and citizenship 

assistance. For current and former students: basic computer skills training and employment 

assistance. 


Adult immigrants, refugees, and migrants 


Franklin and Hampshire Counties 

COST: 

None 


• Center for New Americans – administrative office and classes in Northampton 

• At the Greenfield Community Youth Center 

STAFF: 

James Ayres 

Pesha Black 

Daniela Cazacu 

Dennis Gemme 

Nicole Graves 

Peg Renquist Johnson 

Jairo Lopez Rizo 

Maureen McMahon 

Alexandra Mello 

Executive Director 

ESOL Teacher 

ESOL Teacher 

Grants Administrator/Bookkeeper 

ESOL Program Coordinator/ESOL Teacher 

ESOL Teacher 

Computer Lab Instructor 

Support Services/ADA Coordinator 

Employment Specialist 


STAFF: (Continued) 

Laurie Millman 

Peg Thibbitts 

Development and Marketing Coordinator 

Volunteer & Special Projects Coordinator/Support 

Services 


Volunteer tutors needed at all sites. On-going support and in-service trainings. Training 

site rotates. Interested volunteers should contact Peg Thibbitts at (413) 587-0084. 


FRANKLIN 

Greenfield 


Morning classes. Call site for specific hours 


Center for New Americans - Greenfield 

Greenfield Community Youth Center 

20 Sanderson Street 

Greenfield, MA 01301 

413-772-0055 

E-mail address: greenfield@cnam.org 

Free ESOL classes in the beginning and advanced beginning/intermediate levels, general 

resource and referral information, one-on-one tutors, and citizenship assistance. For current 

and former students: basic computer skills training and employment assistance. 





COST: 

None 


• Center for New Americans – administrative office and classes in Northampton 


STAFF: 

James Ayres 

Rodica Balan 

Dennis Gemme 

Nicole Graves 

Bussarakum Humphrey 



Peg Thibbitts 

Diane Worth 


Employment Specialist/Support Services 


ESOL Program Coordinator 


Support Services/ADA Coordinator 


Volunteer & Special Projects Coordinator/Support 

Services 

ESOL Teacher 







Northampton 


17 New South Street 

Suite 301 

Northampton, MA 01060 

413-587-0084 

E-mail address: info@cnam.org 


Office Hours: 

Monday – Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

Morning classes: 

Call for specific hours 


Free ESOL classes in the beginning, advanced beginning/intermediate, and high intermediate 

levels, transitions to college classes, family literacy, general resources and referral information, 

one-on-one tutors, and citizenship assistance. For current and former students: basic computer 

skills training and employment assistance. 





COST: 

None 


• At downtown Amherst sites 



STAFF: 

James Ayres 

Taryn Amina 

Dennis Gemme 

Nicole Graves 

Peg Renquist Johnson 

Jairo Lopez Rizo 





ESOL Teacher 


ESOL Program Coordinator 

ESOL Teacher 


Support Services/ADA Coordinator/ESOL Teacher 

Employment Specialist 






HAMPDEN COUNTY 

Holyoke 

Community Adolescent Resource and 

Education (CARE) Center 

247 Cabot Street 

Holyoke, MA 01040 

413-532-2900 

E-mail address: anrodriguez@carecenterholyoke.org 


Class Hours: 


8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 


ABE; Pre-GED and GED in English and Spanish; ESOL; family literacy; health and life skills 

classes; counseling; daycare 


Pregnant and parenting teens ages 16-21 


Holyoke, Chicopee, South Hadley, Springfield, and Westfield 

COST: 

None 


None 

STAFF: 

Anne Teschner 

Lourdes Burgos 

Anita Gallers 

Tzivia Gover 

Milagros Miranda 

Monica Reyes 

Ana Rodriquez 


Spanish GED Teacher 

English GED Teacher 

Transition Counselor 

Transition Counselor 

Tutor 




Carmen Rivera 

Tonia Tapia 

Carmen Vicenty 

Outreach Intake Coordinator 

English GED Teacher 

English Pre-GED Teacher 


Member of JUNTOS, the Holyoke Adult Learning Collaborative 

On-site infant and toddler daycare, meals (breakfast, snack, lunch), and transportation provided 

to students of The CARE Center. 



Holyoke 


317 Main Street 


413-538-5770 

E-mail address: rhodgkinson@cepholyoke.org 


Office Hours 

Class Hours 

Monday - Friday 

Monday/Wednesday 

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ESOL Level Ill 

(Intermediate/high Intermediate) 


Monday-Thursday 

9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Native Language Literacy I 

(in Spanish) 

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Native Language Literacy II 

(in Spanish) 

Monday/Wednesday/Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ABE/College Transition Class 

at Holyoke Community College 

Tuesday/Thursday 

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ESOL Level II (advanced 

beginner/low) 

4:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Literacy-GED class at 

MSPCC Holyoke 

Adult Basic Education services include: Native Language Literacy in Spanish; Pre-GED in 

Spanish; two levels of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL); a GED/Family Literacy 

program at the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (MSPCC) family 

drop-in center in Holyoke; and an Adult Basic Education/College Transition class at Holyoke 

Community College. 

Community advocacy and referrals: Kimbombo Community Theater; educational counseling; 

and community discussion (charlas) on topics of interest to parents of Holyoke Public School 

children. Referral services include legal, medical, housing, and personal advocacy; 


Primarily Latino community, but all adult learners are welcome 



Holyoke/Hampden County 

COST: 

None 


None 

STAFF: 

Robin L. Hodgkinson 

Alice Barret 

Maritsol Fontanez 

Jessica Lerman 

Aimee Loiselle 

Yolanda Robles 

Adika Vasquez 


Family Literacy/Pre-GED Instructor 

CareerPoint Outstation Counselor/Education 

Counselor 

ESOL Instructor 

ABE/College Transition Instructor 

Pre-English/NLL Instructor 

VISTA Volunteer 


“CEP offers an array of ABE opportunities to adults in Holyoke and Hampden County. We work 

primarily with low-income Latino learners, but our doors are open to anyone with ABE needs. 

Class content is designed around students' real-life concerns and all classes are highly 

participatory. Our work is carried out through laddered adult literacy and language education 

programs, as well as through grassroots organizing and action initiatives that encourage our 

students and others to engage in their communities, to respect human dignity with its rights and 

responsibilities, and to increase awareness about social and economic inequalities.” 

Robin Hodgkinson, Executive Director 



Springfield 

Corporation for Public Management (CPM) 

Supported Work Program 


Suite 108B 

Springfield, MA 01107 

413-272-2206 

E-mail address: BDelancey@partnersforcommunity.org 


Office Hours: 

Class Hours: 



8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 


Job search; clerical skills upgrade/refresher classes; job placement; subsidized employment. 

POPULATION SERVICED AND ELIGIBILITY: 

DTA recipients in Holyoke-Springfield area. 


Services are available statewide to companies and DTA recipients 

COST: 

None 


• Brightwood Development Cooperation 

• Corporation for Justice Management 

• New England Farm Workers Council 

STAFF: 

Barbara Delancey 

Regional Director 


CPM is affiliated with Partners for Community, a management service organization. 




Northampton 

EDCO Collaborative – 

Massachusetts Migrant Education Program 

123 Hawley Street 


413-586-5886 

E-mail address: dalmeida@edcollabor.org 



9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. 


Summer academic and recreational program; ESOL Evening Project for Migrant Worker Youth; 

parent empowerment workshops; after-school tutorial for students grades K-12 and Early 

Childhood Intervention Project 


Migrant worker families and youths (agriculture, dairy fishers); eligibility interview required 


Western Massachusetts 

COST: 

None 


None 

STAFF: 

David Almeida 

Regional Program Director 


Community liaisons conduct home visits, recruitment, follow-up, some advocacy. Students 

must meet eligibility requirements in order to obtain services. 



FRANKLIN COUNTY 

Greenfield 


160 Elm Street 


413-774-4014 x158 

E-mail address: Laura.Waskiewicz@fcs.state.ma.us 


Class Hours: 


8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. (0-4) 

10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (5-8) 

Thursday / Friday 

8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Special Education 

Monday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday 

1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (9-12) 

Monday / Wednesday / Friday 

5:30 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. GED 


ABE, ASE and Special Education programs for incarcerated adults to continue secondary 

education program and to prepare for and achieve GED certificate 


Incarcerated men serving more than thirty (30) days and who have not obtained a high school 

diploma and/or who test at or below an 8 th grade level in Reading, English Language Arts, 

and/or Math 


Franklin County 

COST: 

None 


None 


STAFF: 

Laura Waskeiwicz 

Arthur Downey 

Robert Gordon 

Jim Rathschmidt 

Martha Rullman 


ABE Instructor 

Special Education 

Education Coordinator 

Education Counselor 


The average length of sentence is 18 months. Pre-ASE and ASE programs are offered and 

integrated with separately funded vocational training and special education programs. 



Springfield 

Gray House, Inc., The – 

Community Education Support Program 

22 Sheldon Street 


413-734-6696 

E-mail address: casagris@aol.com 


Class Hours: 


8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 


ABE; ESOL; Pre-GED with focus on family learning, computers, writing, and conversational 

classes 


Primarily residents of the North End of Springfield; no specific requirements 


Main focus is on the North End, but open to clients from other areas 

COST: 

None 


None 

STAFF: 

Glenn Yarnell, Jr. 

Elaine Lampron 

Director of Adult Education 

Teacher 


The Gray House, Inc. also offers educational and recreational youth programs; community food 

pantry; youth clothing. 




Greenfield 

Greenfield Community College – 

English for Speakers of Other Languages 

One College Drive 


413-775-1226 

E-mail address: Carpenter@gcc.mass.edu 


Class Hours: 

Monday - Thursday 

9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

Friday 

9:00 a.m. – noon 


College preparatory in ESOL courses, including written English, oral skills, grammar, reading, 

vocabulary and pronunciation for Advanced Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Levels; 

computer training; and free homework tutorial classes offered Monday-Thursday after academic 

classes. 

Volunteer conversation partners help new students practice English. Career Resource Center 

is available to international students for help in choosing careers. 


International visa holders, local immigrants and refugees. Most students have high school 

diplomas required to qualify for financial aid 


Greenfield and Northampton 

COST: 

College application fee: $10 – residents /$35 - non-residents 


None 


STAFF: 

Kit Carpenter 

ESOL Department Chair 


Volunteer conversation partners meet with individuals and groups of students to help them 

practice their English and find out more about their new communities. 

International visa holders are not eligible for financial aid. 



Greenfield 

Greenfield Community College – 

Next Step Up 

E-mail address: 

One College Drive 


413-775-1828 


Administration Office Hours 


9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 

. 


Transition from ABE/ESOL/GED to college 


Must have GED or A.S. (from any country) 


Hampshire/Franklin Counties 

COST: 

None 


• Center for New Americans 

• Direct connection with Career Center 

• The Literacy Project 

• Re-entry programs 

STAFF: 

Lindy Whiton 

Program Coordinator/Counselor 



NSU is a transition to college program that provides resources and supports for first-time 

college students who have GEDs. Students are placed into classes appropriate for their 

educational level. They are mandated to take College Success and they become the advisees 

of the NSU counselor. They stay with the program for a year and are transitioned to their field 

of interest. 



Ludlow 



325 Alabama Street 

Ludlow, MA 01056-1780 

413-547-8000 x2813 


Class Hours: 


5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. ABE/GE/Peer Literacy 


Tuesday / Thursday 

6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ESOL 

Community reintegration; substance abuse treatment; educational services; counseling; 

vocational counseling; domestic abuse and anger management; and family counseling 


Inmates and other offenders in Hampden County, also state and federal inmate 


Hampden County 

COST: 

None 


• Hampden County Sheriff's Department and Correctional Center, Ludlow 

• Hampden County Sheriff's Department – Community Safety Program, Springfield 

• Hampden County Sheriff’s Department - WMass. Correctional Alcohol Center, Springfield 

• Hampden County Sheriff's Department – Women’s Correctional Center, Chicopee 

STAFF: 

Linda Gamache 

Robert Gelinas 

Miranda Hamerly 

Mike Klicka 

Treatment Manager 

ABE/GED Instructor 


GED Instructor 



None 



Ludlow 

Hampden County Sheriff’s Department and Correctional Center 

627 Randall Road 

Ludlow, MA 01056-1779 

413-547-8000 x2459 

E-mail address: andree.duval@sdh.state.ma.us 


Class Hours: 

Monday - Friday - at main institution in Ludlow, some evening classes 

8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. 

Tuesday / Thursday - at the WMass. Correctional Alcohol Center 

3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. 

Monday / Wednesday - at Pre-Release Center 

6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ABE/GED 

Tuesday / Thursday - at Pre-Release Center 

6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ESOL 

Monday – Friday - at Women’s Correctional Center 

2:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. ABE/ESOL Services 


ABE (Basic Literacy); Pre-ASE and ASE; ESOL; Pre-GED and GED; Special Education, Title I; 

vocational education (6 clusters); substance abuse treatment; college classes with Springfield 

Technical Community College 


Incarcerated males and females 



COST: 

None 



• Hampden County Sheriff's Department – Community Safety Center, Springfield 

• Hampden County Sheriff’s Department - WMass. Correctional Alcohol Center, Springfield 

• Hampden County Sheriff's Department – Pre-release, Ludlow 

• Hampden County Sheriff's Department – Women’s Correctional Center, Chicopee 

STAFF: 

Daniel O’Malley 

James Gill 

Albert Bessette 

Rick Barron 

Iris Broudy 

Susanne Campagna 

Miriam Chaput 

Meredith Cox 

David Crawford 

Terry Cullinane 

Lee Duquette 

Angel Estrada 

Robert Gelinas 

Kelly Graziano 

Gene Gramarossa 

David Hager 

Miranda Hammerly 

Edmond Hayes 

Pat Jachym 

Michael Klica 

Ricki-Ann Landers 

Martha Mangini 

Karen Meader 

TBA 

DeAnn Nilles 

Elaine Peters 

Cheryl Reynolds 

Paul Sutherland 

Michael Szklarz 

Jerry Tabb 

John Turowsky 

Michael Wikar 

David Wyrobek 

Assistant Deputy Superintendent 

Assistant Deputy Superintendent 

Education/Case Manager 

Vocational Reintegration Counselor 

ESOL Teacher 




Librarian 


Culinary Arts Instructor 

Welding Instructor 


ABE Instructor/Title I Services 


Graphic Arts Instructor 



Education Reintegration Counselor/College 

Coordinator 



Administrative Assistant 

Program Assistant 

College Coordinator/Education Reintegration 

Counselor 

ABE/ESOL Instructor 

Office Systems Instructor 

Pre-GED/GED Teacher 

Title I Instructor 


Custodial Maintenance Instructor 

Building and Construction Trades Instructor 


Special Education Teacher 


None 



Northampton 


205 Rocky Hill Road 


413-584-5911 

E-mail address: ramona.melody@hsd.state.ma.us 


Class Hours: 


9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

Tuesday / Thursday / Sunday 

7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Computer Literacy 

Classes available for work release participants at office of Hampshire County Community 

Corrections in Northampton 


ABE, Pre-ASE; GED; counseling; substance abuse treatment; vocational education instruction; 

Life Skills Program, and job placement; reintegration /transition 


Incarcerated adults serving time at the Hampshire County Jail and House of Correction 


Most students lived in Hampshire and Hampden Counties and/or Western Massachusetts before 

incarceration 

COST: 

None 


• Hampshire County Community Corrections Center 


STAFF: 

Melinda Cady 

Craig Blazejowski 

Carl Cignoni 

Michelle Cortungo 

Alexis Greenblatt 

Wallace Hlava 

Stephen Kamienski 

Robert McCrea 

Gary Mongeon 

AnnMarie Picolo 

Amy Stamm 

Thane Thomson 

Margie Westwood 

Treatment Staff: 

Assistant Deputy Superintendent of Programs 

and Treatment 


Reintegration Manager 

Education Reintegration Counselor/ 

Post-release Education and Vocational 

Support/Reintegration-Transition Teacher 

ABE II/ASE/GED/Spanish/ESOL/NLL Teacher/ 

Fathers Read Aloud Program Co-coordinator/ 

Peer Tutor Co-coordinator/PEN Project 

Co-coordinator/Insider newsletter Editor 

Vocational Training Coordinator 

Vocational Training Instructor; GED Test 

Administrator 

GED/Post-GED Teacher; Librarian 

Technology Coordinator/Computer Teacher/ 

SMARTT Data Entry 


ABE/ASE/GED/Quilting Teacher/Fathers Read 

Aloud Program Co-coordinator/Peer Tutor 

Co-coordinator//PEN Project Co-coordinator 

Title I Teacher 

Reintegration Manager 

6 Case Managers 

2 Substance Abuse Clinicians 

1 Job Placement Counselor 


None 



Holyoke 

Holyoke Adult Learning Opportunities (HALO) Center 

57 Suffolk Street 


413-534-2026 

E-mail address: mkleciak@hps.holyoke.ma.us 


Office Hours: 

Class Hours: 


Monday – Thursday 

8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. 

11:15 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. 


Beginning reading classes for non-readers (levels 0-2); ABE; Pre-GED/GED; beginning and 

intermediate ESOL; some tutoring available for students. 


Residents of Holyoke and surrounding communities (16+ years of age) who are not enrolled in 

regular school 


Holyoke, Chicopee, South Hadley, and surrounding areas 

COST: 

None 


• Holyoke Public Schools 

STAFF: 

Martha Owen 

Margaret Boyle 

Wanona Dobbs 

Margaret Kleciak 

Kelly Martin 

Carolyn Sadeh 

Director of Adult/Parent Education 

Cunselor/Tutor 

Pre-GED and GED Instructor 

Assistant to Director 

Beginning Literacy and ABE Instruction 

ESOL I and II Instructor 



Placement tests for ABE/GED classes are done by appointment. Interested candidates should 

call the center for more information 

Interested candidates for ESOL classes should call the center and request to be placed on the 

waiting list. 

Students may receive some additional assistance from tutors. This service depends on student 

needs and tutor availability. 

HALO is part of the JUNTOS Collaborative. 



Holyoke 

Holyoke Community College – 

ABE/College Transition Program 

303 Homestead Avenue 

Frost Building – Room 276 


413-532-2852 

E-mail address: edreyfuss@hcc.mass.edu 


Office Hours: 

Class Hours: 

Monday-Friday 


9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 9:15 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. (M/W/F) 


Program provides preparation for college skills and knowledge to guide students towards success 

in a college environment. Students; provide s students with a supportive learning environment to 

improve Math, Critical Reading and Writing skills; computer skills building classes, introduction to 

HCC resources; study strategies; extensive mentoring, tutoring, counseling in English and 

Spanish, and assistance with Financial Aid and Admissions. “We help students identify 

college/career paths that lead to family-sustaining wages.” 


Applicants must have attained a high school diploma (at least 4 years ago) or GED (from any 

time); be interested in entering college; self-motivated, determined and committed to enter an 

intensive college preparatory course. 



COST: 

None 


• Community Education Project 


STAFF: 

Elia Dreyfus 

Nicole Ghaname 

Aimee Loiselle 

Program Coordinator/Counselor 


Instructor 


Program is a collaboration between The Community Education Project and Holyoke Community 

College. 



Holyoke 


Adult Learning Center 

CareerPoint 

850 High Street 


413-532-4900 x116 

E-mail address: aansell@careerpointma.us 


Office hours for Program Coordinator: 


10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 


12:00 noon – 8:00 p.m. 


Three levels of ABE in English; ABE; Pre-GED and GED classes; Fast-track Math (starting 

January ’09); ESOL (starting January ’09) 


Applicants must be sixteen years of age or older, be available to attend classes two evenings a 

week, and have transportation to CareerPoint. 



COST: 

Free 


None 

STAFF: 

Aliza Ansell 

Susan Dixon 

Allison Gillis 

Glen Horrigan 

Program Coordinator/ABE Instructor 

Counselor 

Fast Track Math Instructor 




Cheryl Reynolds 

Maureen Shea 

Pre-GED Instructor 

GED Math Fast Track Instructor 


Office remains open throughout summer. 



Holyoke 


CLEP Testing 


Kittredge Center – 2 nd floor Lobby 


413-532-2007 

E-mail address: alingham@hcc.mass.edu 


Office Intake Hours: 

8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. 

For test dates and registration instructions – visit our web address or call for a brochure. 


College-level Examination Program (CLEP) 


Ages 16+ 



COST: 

$100 per subject - $35 due at registration (exact cash or money order only); balance of $65 due on 

test day (paid by debit/credit card only) 


• Holyoke Community College – Community Services 

STAFF: 

Arvard Lingham 

Coordinator of Non-credit Registrations and 

Kittredge Center Operations 


None 




Holyoke 


Community Services 


Kittredge Building – Room 219 


413-552-2320 

E-mail address: kwhite@hcc.mass.edu 


Class Hours: 

Tuesday / Wednesday 

6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. 

Call to confirm class schedule; days/times may 

change. 


GED preparatory classes, beginning with diagnostic testing, followed by a review of all areas 

covered by the exam: Writing Skills, Social Studies, Science, Reading Comprehension, and 

Mathematics. Students learn tips on how to take the GED test and use of the hand calculator 

used in the test. 


No minimum period of residency is required for taking the test 



COST: 

$219 


Member of JUNTOS (Holyoke ABE providers). Also operates Holyoke Community College’s 

Adult Learning Center at CareerPoint. (See separate entry) 

STAFF: 

Kenden White 

Dean of Community Services 



For information specific to GED testing, see Holyoke Community College - GED Testing 

Registration entry of this directory. 

Community Services is part of Holyoke Community College’s Division of Business and 

Community Services. 



Holyoke 


ESOL Program 


Donahue Building – Room 203 


413-532-2553 

E-mail address: ekelley@hcc.mass.edu 


Monday-Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. 


Five levels of ESOL day classes (beginning-advanced); academic courses focus on reading and 

writing; speaking and listening; basic, intermediate and advanced grammar; a pronunciation 

course 


Students who want to learn English as a Second Language; should have high school diploma or 

GED and be accepted into the college 

An Ability to Benefit test is available for students without GED or high school diploma. A 

passing score on this test allows applicant entrance to college. Test is given in English 



COST: 

There is a cost, but financial aid is available for qualifying applicants. 


None 

STAFF: 

Eileen Kelley, Ed. D. 

Carlos M. Malave 

Program Coordinator 

ESOL Skills Specialist (PT) 



Students who are interested in applying for September should start admission and financial aid 

paperwork in April. 

Students who are interested in applying for January should start admissions and financial aid 

paperwork in September. 



Holyoke 


GED Testing Registration 


Kittredge Center – Room 307 


413-532-2292 

E-mail address: teccles@hcc.mass.edu 


Office Intake Hours 

9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. 

The GED battery of tests is given 2-3 times per month on scheduled dates. 

For test dates and registration instructions – visit our web address or call for a brochure. 


Testing for General Educational Development (GED) Diploma 


Ages 16+ 



COST: 

GED Test - $65 

Childcare available at the college during the day for a fee. 


• Adult Learning Center at CareerPoint (Pre-GED and GED classes) 

STAFF: 

Theresa Eccles 

GED Administrator 



General Educational Development (GED) preparation provides an opportunity to earn high 

school equivalency diploma. The GED is administered over a three-day period in the following 

order – 

Day One 

Language Arts -Writing Skills 

Language Arts - Essay 

Day Two 

Social Studies 

Science 

Day Three 

Language Arts - Literature 

Math with calculator 

Math without calculator. 



Holyoke 


Jump Start Certificate Program 


Frost Building – Room 223 


413-552-2042 / 552-2496 / 552-2085 

E-mail address: bhendrickson@hcc.mass.edu 


Monday-Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 3:45 p.m. 


A 16-week Certificate Program to gain skills in Customer Service and Office Support. Job placement 

and placement assistance immediately upon completion! NO GED REQUIRED TO ENROLL! 


TAFDC recipients only 

Minimum test scores: Reading Comprehensive 7.0; Math 6.0 

A desire to participate fully in the Jump Start Certificate Program 

A commitment to complete the Jump Start Certificate Program including maintaining an 

attendance rate of no more than 10% excused absences, and 15% total absences 

A commitment to enter employment (20 hours or more per week) at the end of the Program 

A commitment to retain employment for the purpose of becoming self-sufficient. 



COST: 

None 


• CareerPoint 


STAFF: 

Keith Hensley 

Barbara Hendrickson 

Debra Mutch 

Mary Portner 

Dean of Workforce Development/Executive 

Director of the CBPD 

Program Assistant, CBPD 




For more information or to enroll call Barbara A. Hendrickson at (413) 552-2042 or have your DTA 

Worker fax a completed ESP-16 to the Jump Start Office at (413) 552-2077. 



Holyoke 


Jump Start CNA/HHA Training Program 


Donahue Building – Room 223 


413-552-2042 / 552-2496 / 552-2085 

E-mail address: dmutch@hcc.mass.edu 


Monday-Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. 


A 5-week training program includes classroom and laboratory instruction, a clinical internship 

component in an area nursing home, and workshops and instruction in World of Work and Job 

Search topics. Uniforms will be provided by HCC. Job Placement Assistance is included in the 

program to help students obtain employment. HCC will assist graduates in completing their 

Nurse Aide state certification test application and will pay the testing fee. At the end of the HHA 

training component, students will take the industry-recognized Home Health Aid competency 

exam at HCC. NO GED REQUIRED TO ENROLL! 


TAFDC recipients only 

Speak, read, write and understand English 

Take the free reading comprehension and math assessments and achieve required levels 

for entrance into the Program. Assessments are given to ensure that students are currently 

at the math and reading levels needed to fully comprehend the course materials and 

content. 

Minimum test scores: Reading Comprehension 8.0; Math 7.0 

A desire to participate fully in the Jump Start CNA/HHA Training Program 

A commitment to complete the Jump Start CNA/HHA Training Program, including 

maintaining a perfect attendance 

A commitment to enter employment (20 hours or more per week) 

A commitment to retain employment for the purpose of becoming self-sufficient 

Pass a CORI/SORI (Criminal Offender Record Information/Sex Offender Registry 

Information) 

Be a United States Citizen or person otherwise legally able to work in the United States 

Be at least 20 years of age, if have not obtained a high school diploma or GED 

Be able to lift and carry 50 pounds, push/pull 25 pounds, climb stairs, stoop, bend, stand for 

long periods of time, and work with the elderly 



(Continued) 

Provide documentation from a medical professional stating that you can perform the 

physical requirements, and the results of a TB test administered within the past year 



COST: 

None 



• Loomis House 

• Mt. St. Vincent 

STAFF: 

Debra Mutch 



For more information or to enroll call Debra Mutch at (413) 552-2496. Have DTA worker fax a 

completed EP-16 to the Jump Start Certificate Office at (413) 522-2077. 



Holyoke 


Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce 



413-534-3376 x103 

E-mail address: holyoketutor@holycham.com 



8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

. 


Training and placement of volunteers in local adult education programs needing ABE, ESOL 

and GED assistance 


Tutors service primarily low-income residents of Holyoke 


Holyoke 

COST: 

None 


• JUNTOS Collaborative 

STAFF: 

Emily Fox 



The Holyoke Tutor-Mentor Program functions as a coordinating agency for tutors and adult 

literacy programs. It has no teaching programs itself other than training sessions for its 

volunteers. 




Holyoke 

HolyokeWorks 

100 Front Street 


413-532-2683 

E-mail address: lbaychamber@hotmail.com 


Class Hours: 


Days: 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 


Tuesday / Wednesday 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ESOL 

ABE; ESOL; GED; Workplace Education; Job Skills Training (Office Systems Technology, 

Certified Nurse’s Aide) 


Department of Transitional Assistance recipients; WIA eligible disadvantaged; school drop-outs 

No eligibility requirements for evening ESOL classes 


Services all geographic areas 

COST: 

None 


• Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce 

STAFF: 

Larry Bay 

Angelika Bay 

Debra Bottarro 

William Bryer 

Tracy Corless 

Erin Doherty 

Monica Gross 





Office Systems Instructor 


CNA Instructor 



June Lupien 


Laura Porter 

Green Manufacturing ESOL Training Instructor 

Laura Qualliotine 


Sarah Schmidt ESOL ?? 

Rachel Tarr 



Job placement services available upon completion of vocational training programs. 

Formerly MCDI-Holyoke, Holyoke Works now operates independently of its former “parent” 

agency MCDI-Springfield. 



Northampton 

International Language Institute of Massachusetts, INC. (ILI) 



Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

. 


25 New South Street 


413-586-7569 

www.ili.edu 

E-mail address: [first name of person]@ili.edu 

Free ESOL classes for refugees and immigrants at the beginner, intermediate, and advanced 

levels; part-time world language classes; ESOL in Northampton and off-site; volunteer tutors*; 

computer lab; language exchanges; ESOL Certificate teacher-trainings; tutor training; PDPs; 

workshops on teaching methodology and cross-cultural awareness and sensitivity 


Students must be 18 years of age or older 


Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin Counties 

COST: 

Fee waived for DESE-sponsored classes 

Programs Requiring a Fee: 

Intensive English – Classes at beginning, intermediate and advanced levels for students 18 

and over; student visa assistance 

 

 

TESOL – A 4-week certificate program that provides participants with knowledge and skills 

in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). The course provides practical 

training, lesson planning, practice teaching and feedback. 

World Language Classes in Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, 

Russian and Spanish. Elementary, Intermediate and advanced levels; weekend workshops 

and summer intensives. 



• Hampshire College – World Language Program, Amherst 

• Northampton Public Schools 

• Workplace Education Programs 

STAFF: 

Alexis Johnson 

Sue Arthen 

Amy Ben-Ezra 

Daniel Cuenca 

Nina Dudley 

Macey Faiella 

Troy Fillman 

Caroline Gear 

Maya Krinksy 

Cynthia Mahoney 

Karine Roesch 


Finance Officer 

Volunteer Tutor Coordinator 



DESE Coordinator/ESOL Instructor 

ESOL Instructor/Coordinator of IEP 

Director of Programs 



TESOL Certificate Program Coordinator 


* The Volunteer English Tutor Program matches students with volunteer English tutors from the 

community. Tutors meet with students weekly and help with speaking, listening, reading and 

writing. 



Springfield 

Jewish Family Service of WMass 

15 Lenox Street 


413-737-2601 

E-mail address: a.balbino@jfswm.org 


Monday 

9:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. 

Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday 

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

. 


ESOL to refugees and immigrants; New Americans (resettlement) Program; family life education 

program; counseling, citizenship preparation and assistance. 

Other social services are also available. 


Nonsectarian, children, adolescents, adults, and seniors 


Classes open to all local residents 

COST: 

There is no charge for ESOL classes. Fees for all other programs are based on a sliding scale. 


None 


STAFF: 

Robert Marmor 

Karina Bogdanis, LICSW 

Kathy Bowen 

Mohamud Mohammed 

Susan Philips 


Clinical Social Worker, LICSW 

Older Adult Coordinator 

New American Program Director 

Adoption Director 


Jewish Family Service of Western Massachusetts is a nonsectarian and not for profit organization 

with a local volunteer board of directors. 

The New American Program at JFS helps refugees and immigrants resettle here safely, learn 

English, gain citizenship and adjust to American life in Western Massachusetts. 

In addition to finding U.S. sponsors and providing a safe arrival, JFS’s multi-cultural, multi-lingual 

staff provides comprehensive services for refugees. Assistance includes case management, family 

reunification, federal refugee assistance, employment, acculturation, housing, access to medical 

and educational services and counseling. In addition, a special program for seniors helps refugees 

over age 60 adjust to their new community. 

For more information call (413) 737-2601 or email Alda Balbino at a.balbino@jfswm.org. 



Amherst 

Jones Library – ESL Center 

43 Amity Street 


413-259-3093 

E-mail address: esl@joneslibrary.org 


Office Hours 

Monday 

1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

Tuesday – Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 


Tutoring in ESOL and GED for ESOL; computer-assisted instruction for ESOL students; 

citizenship preparation; and ESOL study materials (books, tapes, videos) 


Must be immigrants (no visitors) 


Classes open to all local residents 

COST: 

None 


None 

STAFF: 

Lynne Weintraub 

ESL Coordinator 


This program provides referrals for anybody, regardless of eligibility. It also has a resource 

library of ESOL materials available to anyone with a Massachusetts library card. 

Visit their web page at http://www.joneslibrary.org/esl/index.html 




Lee 


Lee Library 


Lee, MA 01238 

413-243-0471 

E-mail address: triciaf@litnetsb.org 


Class Hours: 


10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

. 


Evening sessions by appointment 

ABE; tutoring in ESOL; Pre-GED and GED; Citizenship; additional tutoring available upon request. 


Age 16+ who are no longer in school; clients wanting to improve literacy, ESOL, and life skills; 

homeless 


Southern Berkshire County 

COST: 

None 


• Berkshire Community College - South Campus 

• Lee Library Association 

• And all libraries and some churches in Southern Berkshires 

STAFF: 

Tricia Farley-Bouvier 

Mary Spina 




None 




Greenfield 

The Literacy Project 

Administrative Office 

15 Bank Row, Suite C 


413-774-3934 & TTY 

E-mail address: info@literacyproject.org 


Administration Office Hours: 


Site schedules vary, generally day and evening classes available Monday through Thursday. 

. 


Classroom sites in Franklin and Hampshire Counties offer small, friendly ABE classes in 

reading, writing, Pre-GED and GED, Transition to College and Employment Support, all with an 

emphasis on community involvement. 


Adult (age 16 and over) and not enrolled in high school 


Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, and Worcester Counties, including North Quabbin area 

COST: 

None 


• TLP - Amherst Adult Learning Center/Amherst (413-259-1663) 

• TLP - Charboneau Adult Learning Center/Greenfield (413-774-3935) 

• TLP - North Quabbin Adult Learning Center/Orange (978-544-8917) 

• TLP - Pioneer Valley Adult Learning Center/Northampton (413-584-6755) 

• TLP - Ware Adult Learning Center/Ware (413-967-9902) 


STAFF: 

Judith Roberts 

Margaret Anderson 

Sharon Feeney 

Ruth-Ellen Holland 

Sara MacKay 

Nancy Parr 

Toon Fuderich 


Volunteer Coordinator 

Distance Learning Coordinator 

Office Manager 

Technology Coordinator 

Accounting Manager 

Site Director 


The Literacy Project offers five classroom sites in Franklin and Hampshire Counties. 

The Project provides accommodations for people with disabilities. 



Amherst 

The Literacy Project – Amherst 

Amherst Adult Learning Center 

401 Main Street, Ground floor 


413-259-1663 

E-mail address: smurphy@literacyproject.org 



Varies, generally day and evening classes available 


Small, friendly ABE classes in reading, writing, Pre-GED and GED, Transition to College and 

Employment Support, all with an emphasis on community involvement. 

POPULATION SERVED AND ELIGIBILITY: 

Adults (age 16 and over) not enrolled in high school 


Residents of the greater Amherst area 

COST: 

None 


• TLP - Charboneau Adult Learning Center/Greenfield 

• TLP - North Quabbin Adult Learning Center/Orange 

• TLP - Pioneer Valley Adult Learning Center/Northampton 

• TLP - Ware Adult Learning Center/Ware 

STAFF: 

Sheila Murphy 

Michelle Aguilar 

Janet Gary 

Site Director/Instructor 

Instructor 

Transitions Counselor 



This center is one of five classroom sites of The Literacy Project whose administrative 

headquarters is in Greenfield, MA (413-774-3934). 




Greenfield 

The Literacy Project – Greenfield 

Charboneau Learning Center 

15 Bank Row, Suite D 


413-774-3935 

E-mail address: louiseb@literacyproject.org 


Class Hours: 


Varies, generally day and evening classes available 







Residents of greater Greenfield area 

COST: 

None 


• TLP - Amherst Adult Learning Center/Amherst 



• TLP - Ware Adult Education Center/Ware 

STAFF: 

Louise Barrows-Mollis 

Amber Ortiz 

Joseph Panzica 


Youth Transition Counselor 

Instructor 








Northampton 

The Literacy Project – Northampton 

Pioneer Valley Adult Education Center 

One Brewster Court, #1 


413-584-6755 

E-mail address: sheilam@literacyproject.org 


Monday-Thursday 

Generally day and evening classes available 

. 





Adults (age 16 and over) and not enrolled in high school 


Residents of the greater Northampton area 

COST: 

None 


• TLP - Amherst Adult Learning Center/Amherst 




STAFF: 

Sheila Murphy 

Eileen Barry 

Ed Hayes 

Deborah Holmes 


GED Teacher/Transitions Counselor 

Instructor/Transitions Counselor 

Instructor 




headquarters are in Greenfield, MA (413-774-3934). 

The Literacy Project provides accommodations for people with disabilities. 



Orange 

The Literacy Project – Orange 

North Quabbin Adult Education Center 

34 North Main Street 

Orange, MA 01364-1034 

978-544-8917 

E-mail address: cking@literacyproject.org 




. 







Residents of greater Orange area, including eastern Franklin County, the North Quabbin area, 

and Athol 

COST: 

None 


• TLP - Amherst Adult Learning Center/ Amherst 




STAFF: 

Catherine King 

Carol Hayes 

Julie Wright 

Amber Ortiz 


Instructor 

Instructor 

Youth Transitions Counselor 




headquarters are in Greenfield, MA (413-774-3934). 

The Literacy Project provides accommodations for people with disabilities 



Ware 

The Literacy Project – Ware 

Ware Adult Learning Center 

23 West Main Street – Suite 3 

Ware, MA 01082 

413-967-9902 

E-mail address: carl@literacyproject.org 










Residents of greater Ware area, including Quaboag Hills communities 

COST: 

None 


• Amherst Adult Learning Center/Amherst 

• Charboneau Adult Learning Center/Greenfield 

• North Quabbin Adult Learning Center/Orange 

• Pioneer Valley Adult Learning Center/Northampton 

STAFF: 

Carl Coniglio 

Martha Shea 


Instructor 





The Literacy Project provides accommodations for people with disabilities. 



Pittsfield 


Berkshire Athenaeum 

One Wendell Avenue 


413-499-9487 

E-mail address: LVBC@bcn.net 


Office Hours: 

Class Hours: 



9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Instruction by arrangement 

Evenings by appointment 

between tutor and student 

Tutor trainings are scheduled evenings and are based upon program needs. Please call the 

office for more details. 

. 


ABE; ESOL; Pre-GED 


Adults (age 16+); adult non-readers; non-English speaking population; anyone seeking to 

improve reading and English speaking skills 



COST: 

None 


• Literacy Volunteers of Massachusetts - Boston 

STAFF: 

Karen Wallace 

Barbara Milensky 





Services are confidential and lessons are individualized to fit the needs and goals of each 

Student 



Ludlow 


221 East Street 

Ludlow, MA 01056 

413-583-0320 

E-mail address: Kdunkelberg@hcc.mass.edu 



2:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. 


9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 

Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon 

. 


Morning and evening ESOL classes, including computer classes 


Adults 18+ years of age; individuals (for whom English is not a first language) interested in 

learning or improving their English language skills in Speaking, Reading, Writing, Listening, and 

Pronunciation 


The greater Ludlow area: Belchertown, Chicopee, Granby, Indian Orchard, Ludlow, Monson, 

Palmer, Springfield, and Wilbraham 

COST: 

None 


• Holyoke Community College 


STAFF: 

Kermit Dunkelberg 

Norma Cabral 

Monica de Paula Ceccatto 

Deidre Marley 

Mary Martone 


Assistant Technology Coordinator 

Instructor 

Instructor/Operations Support 

Computer Teacher 


None 



West Springfield 

Lutheran Social Services of New England (LSSNE) 


West Springfield, MA 01089 

413-787-0725 

E-mail address: helenc@lcssne.org 



9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. 


Educational services include ESOL, Computer Literacy and Skills Training for Limited English 

Proficient individuals 

Programs services are limited to clients with Refugee status include resettlement, case 

management, pre- and post-employment placement services, and some skills training. 


Refugee population, including former Soviets, Vietnamese, Somalis, and Burmese. Computer 

Literacy and MDESE ESOL are open to the community at large 


Massachusetts and Connecticut 

COST: 

None 


None 


STAFF: 

Jozafina Lantz 

Helen Czerniejewski 

Rebecca Schiffrin 

Shemariah Blum-Evitts 

Cindy Davis 

Chris Eagan 

Tom Kerner 

Rebecca Schifrrin 

Sandra Stanford 

Liliya Yusenko 

Director West Springfield and Worcester offices 

West Springfield Site Director 

West Springfield Assistant Site Director/Teacher 

Community Planner 

Computer Technician 

Teacher 

Teacher 

Teacher 

Assessment Coordinator 

Data Entry/Program Assistant 


Waiting list for MDESE ESOL program only. 



Springfield 


140 Wilbraham Avenue 


413-781-5640 x223 

E-mail address: cnovogroski@mcditraining.com 


Class Hours: 

Monday – Friday ABE, GED ESOL, Math 

9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 

. 


Tuesday/Wednesday 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ESOL, GED Fast Track 

ABE, ESOL, Pre-GED and GED; vocational training in Office Systems Technologies, Medical 

Office Professional, Customer Service, Computer Technology, Nurse Aide, Culinary, Sheet 

Metal, Welding and Precision Machining 


MCDI serves out of school youth and adults throughout Hampden County who wish to enter or 

re-enter the labor force with technical skills and academic abilities to assist in long-term 

employment success 


Greater Springfield area 

COST: 

WIA/DTA eligible for training programs; Adult Basic Education at no cost 


• Square One 

• Springfield Housing Authority 

• Springfield School Department 

• Springfield Technical Community College 

• YMCA 


STAFF: 

Carol Ann Novogroski 

Maria Arroyo 

Germaine Bryan 

Dolores Catallozzi 

Damaris Delgado 

Omar Galdamez 

Betty Gomez 

Jamie Kynard 

Marilyn McCoy 

Sarah O’Connor 

Kellie Payne 

Philinda Shepley 

James White 





Counselor 


GED/Math Instructor 




Counselor 




MCDI opened Annie's House, a transitional housing program for homeless women who desire to 

make the transition from homelessness to affordable permanent housing. The location of the house, 

close to the MCDI Career Center, will insure that the women have access to MCDI's education, 

employment and training programs. Call Sr. Senga Fulton at MCDI for more information. 



Springfield 

Massachusetts Career Development Institute (MCDI) – 

Adult Homeless Education Program 

140 Wilbraham Avenue 


413-781-5640 x235 

E-mail address: rwilliams@mcditraining.com 



9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

. 


ABE, ESOL, and Pre-GED prior to entering on-site occupational training program 


Homeless adults 


Greater Springfield area 

COST: 

None 


None 

STAFF: 

Raymond Williamson 

Thomas Bass 

Germaine Bryan 

Kelly Payne 


Instructor 

Instructor 

ADA Coordinator 


Additional services include support group, a housing/employment incentive program, cultural 

activities, job development services, upgrade to occupational training, and a computer lab. 




Holyoke 

New England Farm Workers Council 




413-322-0200 


Office Hours: 

Class Hours: 



8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 9 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. 

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. 

. 


ESOL/Workplace Skills -- a 10-week intensive class to help eligible farm workers prepare for 

the workforce 


Low income, Spanish-speaking residents of Holyoke who meet federal guidelines 



COST: 

None 


• Office in Springfield and Holyoke 

• Also Hartford, CT; Rhode Island; and New Hampshire 

STAFF: 

Jenny Diaz 

WMass. Area Director 


New England Farm Workers' Council is affiliated with Partners for Community, a management 

service organization. Other affiliated corporations: Brightwood Development Corporation and 





Holyoke 

New England Farm Workers Council – GED Program 



413-322-0200 

E-mail address: sberte@partnersforcommunity.org 



9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 

1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 

. 


Spanish ABE, Pre-GED, Pre-ASE 


Low income, Spanish-speaking residents of Holyoke who are at least 16 years of age and meet 

federal guidelines 



COST: 

None 


• New England Farm Workers-Holyoke 


STAFF: 

Jenny Diaz 

Yenitza Rodriguez 

WMass. Area Director 

Education Coordinator/Teacher 


New England Farm Workers' Council is affiliated with Partners for Community, a management 

service organization. Other affiliated corporations: Brightwood Development Corporation and 





Springfield 

New England Farm Workers Council – WIA Youth Program 

1628-1640 Main Street 


413-272-2280 

E-mail address: awest@partnersforcommunity.org 


. 


GED for out of school youths ages 16-21 

Class Hours: 


8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. GED/Workplace Skills/ 

Paid Work Experience 


Low income Hampden County residents who meet federal guidelines 



COST: 

None 


• Office at 225 High Street, Holyoke, MA 


STAFF: 

Ana West 

Marilyn Gonzalez 


Lead Case Manager (Holyoke) 



Additional contracts: Mildred Sanchez, Employment Specialist in Springfield office (272-2282) 

and Maria Montara, Case Manager, Springfield, (272-2283) 

New England Farm Workers' Council is affiliated with Partners for Community, a 

management service organization. Other affiliated corporations: Brightwood Development 

Corporation and Corporation for Public Management. 



North Adams 


Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts 

375 Church Street 

North Adams, MA 01247-4100 

413-662-5314 / 662-5310 

E-mail address: t.margulies@mcla.edu 


Class Hours: 

MCLA-Freel Library site 

Monday 

Tuesday 

9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. FAST (Fall) 9:00 a.m. – noon ABE 

9:00 a.m. – noon ASE 9:00 a.m. - noon Technology 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ESOL-A 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ASE-Math 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ESOL–B 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. PASE-Math 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ABE 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. FAST (Spring) 

Wednesday 

Thursday 

9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. FAST (Fall) 9:00 a.m. – noon ABE 

9:00 a.m. – noon ASE 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ABE 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ESOL-A 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. FAST (Spring) 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ESOL-B 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. PASE-Language 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ASE-Language 

Adams Memorial School site 

Monday 

Tuesday 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. GED-Math 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. GED-Language 

Wednesday 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Technology 

Milne Library site 

Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday 


8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. ESOL - A 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ESOL - B 

. 


ABE; Pre-ASE/ASE; ESOL; GED; Technology; and Distance Learning 


Adults without high school diplomas 



Northern Berkshire County 

COST: 

None 


• Adams Memorial School, Adams 

• Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, North Adams 

• Milne Library, Williams town 

STAFF: 

Thelma Margulies 

Carole Blair 

Maria Borucka 

Marina Brodskaya 

Tony Coniglio 

Joan Courtney 

Arlene Curtiss 

Edith “Dedee” Hynes 

Donna Meranti 

Terry Miller 

Rick Noel 

Rosemarie Perry 

Donna Poulton 


GED Fast Track/Computers/Distance Learning 

Instructor (North Adams) 

ESOL Instructor (North Adams) 

ESOL Instructor (Williamstown) 

GED Math Instructor (Adams) 

Office Manager – Learning Services Center 

ESOL Instructor (North Adams) 

PASE Language Arts/ABE Instructor (North 

Adams)/ESOL Instructor (Williamstown) 

ASE Math Instructor (North Adams) 

Director – Learning Services Center 

GED Language Arts & Computers Instructor 

(Adams) 

ASE Language Arts Instructor (North Adams) 

ABE Program Records 


For information about enrolling or Distance Learning, call 662-5314 

Drop-in enrollment meetings: Tuesdays 12 noon, September thru March, in MCLA Freel 

Library. 

Program orientation meetings: Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Freel Library at the 

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. 



Holyoke 


57 Suffolk Street 


413-534-2026 

E-mail address: jspitz@hps.holyoke.ma.us 


Class Hours: 


4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. – includes dinner 


Family Literacy, including GED preparation, at the MSPCC Parent Center, 230 Maple Street (in 

the Holyoke Health Center) 


Families living in Holyoke, with priority given to MSPCC clients. A few slots are also open to the 

community-at-large 


Holyoke (priority) 

COST: 

None 


• Holyoke Public Schools 

STAFF: 

Jody Spitz 



This program is an ABE/family literacy provider under the umbrella of the Holyoke Public 

Schools. 




Pittsfield 


Ten Lyman Street 


413-499-9530 

E-mail address: vszymanksi@pittsfield.net 


Class Hours: 


8:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. 


Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

ABE; Pre-GED/GED; ESOL; ADP; Citizenship; career counseling and financial aid through 

Learning Connection*; computer literacy; Technology Program; Family Literacy Program 


Individuals of all ethnicities and races in Berkshire County, 16 years of age or older. Out of 

school adolescents are included in all programs. 

Candidates for the ADP (Adult Diploma Program) must be 18 years of age or older, out of 

school at least 6 months, and have passed the MCAS. 



COST: 

None 


• Berkshire Children and Families, Pittsfield 

STAFF: 

Vincent Szymanski 

Mia Albano 

Joan Evans 

Pamela Garwood 


Counselor 

ABE-ESOL Teacher/ADP Assessor 

ABE Teacher 



Deborah Hoechstetter 

Matthew Jacoby 

Bridget Manarchik 

Martha Mauke 

JoAnn Mongue 

Dianne F. Shewcraft 

Judy Waters 

Coordinator of Volunteers 

ABE Teacher (substitute) 

Secretary 

ABE Teacher 

ABE Teacher 

ABE-ESOL Teacher 

Substitute Teacher 


Program provides ABE, ESOL, GED and high school diploma instruction to approximately 400 

adults in Berkshire County annually. 

Debbie O’Handley is the coordinator of the Family Literacy Program, a DESE-funded Pathways 

agency. FLP is currently sharing space with PALC but is not part of the PALC. FLP also 

employs two part-time staff. 



Springfield 


38 School Street 


413-737-7450 

E-mail address: jgerena@prccma.org 


Class Hours: 


10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon SEADS 



8:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon GED 

1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. 


8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. ESOL 

ESOL; GED; SEADS transition to college; Latino Employment and Assistance 

Program (LEAP); cultural activities 


Hispanics, DTA recipients; walk-ins from the community 


Hampden County, mainly Springfield 

COST: 

None 


• German Gerena Community School, Springfield 

• North End Youth Center, Springfield 


STAFF: 

Juan Gerenaz 

Jeraliz Arroyo 

Nancy Arroyo 

Matilde Balandra 

Edwin Cruz 

Monica De Paula Ceccatto 

Migdalia Diaz 

Carlos Landrau 

Christopher Landrau 

Madeline Landrau 

Evelyn Santiago 

Julynette Vasquez 



Counselor/GED/ESOL 

Executive Administrative Assistant 

GED/ESOL Teacher 

ESOL Teacher 

Childcare Specialist 

IT Coordinator 

Childcare Specialist 

Financial Officer 

LEAP Coordinator 

Data Entry Specialist – ESOL 


ESOL CLASSES: Three levels corresponding to beginner, low intermediate, and high 

intermediate proficiency in English. The objective of the program is to enable non-English 

speaking immigrant adult learners to become more fully integrated into the socio-economic 

fabric of the community. Graduates of our ESOL Program will be more fully employed, butter 

prepared to continue their formal education, and be better advocates for themselves, their 

families, and their community. 

GED CLASSES FOR YOUNG ADULTS: This class prepared young adults to take the GED exam. 

SEADS PROGRAM: The SEADS Program is collaboration between Springfield Community 

College and PRCC. The SEADS Program is a transition to college program in English that 

helps prepare students for the demands of college academic work. 

LEAP: Assists with resume development and job search. Hours: by appointment. 

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES: Three Kings Day; Mothers Day; Puerto Rican Festival; Raising of the 

Flag; Jolgorio Navideno 



Springfield 


Pine Point Library 

204 Boston Road 


413-263-6839 

E-mail address: jkelly@springfieldlibrary.org 


Class Hours: 

Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday 

9:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. ABE, Pre-GED 

. 



5:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. ABE, Pre-GED 

ABE and Pre-GED classes using participatory, student-centered, process writing 

and publishing students' writing 


Adults 18+ in need of literacy education between 0-8.9 grade levels. 


Greater Springfield area (Hampden County) 

COST: 

None 


None 

STAFF: 

Janet Kelly 

Michelle Faith Brown 

Barbara Lavoie 

Carla Mazzaferro 

Maria Mazzaferro 

Tamar Shadur 

Project Manager/Counselor 

Pre-GED Teacher/ADA Coordinator/SMARTT 

ABE Teacher 

ABE Teacher 

ABE Teacher 

ABE Teacher 



None 



Great Barrington 


South Berkshire Educational Collaborative 

662 Stockbridge Road 

Great Barrington, MA 01230 

413-528-6263 

E-mail address: sbec@educationalcollaborative.org 


Monument Valley Regional Middle School Lee Middle and High School 


Monday / Tuesday / Thursday 

6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. 


ABE classes: Pre-GED/GED; ESOL; Conversational Spanish; Workplace Education; 

volunteer tutors available. 


Serving foreign-speaking adults needing language/literacy training and ABE students 16 

years of age or older with no high school diploma 


Southern Berkshire County including the towns of Great Barrington, Sheffield, Lee, Lenox, 

Stockbridge, Tyringham, and surrounding areas. 

COST: 

None 


• Berkshire Community College 

• Community organizations, including Berkshire Immigrant Center, Literacy Network of South 

Berkshire, Berkshire Works, and others 

STAFF: 

David Pottle 

Mary Andrejco-Bath 

Robert Bierwith 

Kathryn Bos 

Adult Education Program Director 


English Instructor 

ABE/Pre-ASE (MVRMS) 



Teresa Bragdon 

Sue Fish 

Beth Hull 

Ed Kollmer 

Carol McGlinchey 

Claudia Ooley 

Estella Ortiz Bodnar 

Peter Putnam 

Christine Polk 

James Siket 

Angela Spitia 

Katherine Wampler 

Office Manager/van driver/child tutor 

Community Planning 

SMARTT Data Entry/Security (MVRMS) 

ABE/Pre-ASE Teacher (MVRMS) 


Coordinator of Volunteers/ESOL Instructor 

Counselor/Student Advocate 

ESOL Teacher 

Workplace Coordinator/Curriculum Development 

Coordinator/ADA Coordinator/ESOL Instructor 

Homework Center Mentor (MVRMS) 

Counselor 



None 


HAMPSHIRE/HAMPDEN COUNTIES 

Huntington 


(a UMass Labor/Management Workplace Education Program) 

9 Russell Road 

Huntington, MA 01050 

413-667-0217 

www.umass.edu/share 

E-mail address: cspicer@admin.umass.edu 


Class Hours: 


12 noon – 6:00 p.m. 


Occasional evening classes, 

generally 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 

ABE and GED-preparation classes, in small groups and tutorial basis (twice weekly) 

Computer workshops: from very basic to intermediate level (program specific and variety of 

applications) generally evenings from 1- to 4-session classes 

Job Readiness: occasional workshops focusing on career assessment, basic job-search skills, 

general workplace skills *such as communication, conflict management, organization, etc. 


Adults, aged 16 and older 

For ABE/GED, must not be enrolled in high school. 


For GED and Job Readiness programs, student must be a resident of Chester, Huntington, 

Middlefield, or Russell. 

For computer workshops, student must be a resident of the Blandford, Chester, Huntington, 

Middlefield, Montgomery, Russell, or Worthington. 

COST: 

None 



• Hilltown Social Services (Hilltown Community Health Center) 

STAFF: 

Chris Spicer 

Leslie Edwards 

Bob Miller 

George Peterson 


Staff Assistant and Instructor 

Computer Instructor 

Staff Assistant and Computer Lab Manager 


The SHAEC is a ten-year old project of the UMass Labor/Management Workplace Education 

Program. LMWEP serves front-line staff of UMass and organizations around Western 

Massachusetts. Form more information call (413) 545-2031 or visit www.umass.edu/lmwep. 



Springfield 


18 Gaucher Street 


413-787-7210 

E-mail address: FelicianoA@sps.springfield.ma.us/owl 


Call program for schedule 


ESOL; pre-GED, GED preparation, and GED testing in English and Spanish; Alternative 

High School Diploma Program/Adult ABE classes in Algebra, Biology, Science 


High school drop-outs; people who speak limited English; adults 16 years of age 

or over. Classes are restricted to Springfield residents. No restrictions on GED 

pre-testing 



COST: 

$65 – GED Test 

$200 – High School Diploma Program 


None 

STAFF: 

Armando Feliciano 

Carmen DeJesus 

Amelia Ramos 

Patricia Vallecillo 

Director 


GED Test Examiner 

GED Test Examiner 


None 




Springfield 

Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) – 

Adult Education Center 

One Armory Square 


413-755-4300 

E-mail address: SSoffen@stcc.edu 


Class Hours: 


8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ABE Center 



5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Adult Literacy 

Pre-GED 

GED 

Learn More Now 

Math Boot Camp 

Literacy, Pre-GED, GED, Math Boot Camp, Learn-More-Now, and Transition to Post- 

Secondary Education Services 


Over 18 years of age and not currently attending school 


Primarily the Great Springfield area, but open to the general population 

COST: 

None 


None 


STAFF: 

Sue Soffen 

Rodney Wilson 

Terry Wilson 

Director of Returning Adult Students 


Counselor 


STCC also provides transition to college services through a Massachusetts Department 

of Elementary and Secondary Education Transition Grant. Contact Coordinator Toni 

Maruca for more information on this program at 413-755-4528. 



Springfield 

Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) - ESOL 

Building 16 



755-4209 

E-mail address: bszlajen@stcc.edu 


Class Hours: 


11:15 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 

6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. 


9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 


ESL 


General population (including Hispanic, Vietnamese, Russian, South American, and 

European immigrants) 



COST: 

Tuition is covered for most students by financial aid grants; others pay. 


None 


STAFF: 

Regina “Jill” Mendez 

Betty Szlajen 

Elizabeth Carras 

Michele Drennan 

Pamela Greene 

Annie Rivera-Hebert 

Jennifer Markey 

Tuula Ryoppy-Pori 

Department Chair/ESOL Professor/Teacher 

Director of Bilingual Services 

ESOL Professors 

ESOL Professor 


Staff Assistant 




Within ESOL services for Hispanic students, Math and Science are taught in the Spanish 

language. Counseling and financial aid services are offered to all incoming students. 

Visit STCC’s website - stcc.edu – for descriptions of all ESL courses. 



Springfield 

Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) – 

Transitions 

Adult Education Center – Building 27 



413-755-4528 

E-mail address: TMaruca@stcc.edu 


Office Hours: 


8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 


Provide a variety of services to assist incoming students transitioning from ABE 

programs to college, including academic advising and how to obtain financial aid 


Non-traditional Students making the transition from ABE programs to college 



COST: 

None 


• Springfield Technical Community College – Adult Education Center 

STAFF: 

Toni Maruca 



New! Success Express Transition to College Workshop series to be held in May 2009 

and October 2009. Call (413) 755-4300 for more information. 




Springfield 

Springfield Vietnamese-American Civic Association 

(S.V.A.C.A.) 

433 Belmont Avenue 


413-733-9373 

E-mail address: SVACA@verizon.net 


Office Hours: 

Class Hours: 


Monday 

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. ESL 


Provide a variety of bilingual and bicultural services and programs to reach a cross 

section of not only the newcomer Asian population, but also all other ethnic groups of 

immigrants and refugees. This includes direct and indirect services. Currently offering 

only day ESOL classes, U.S. Citizenship test preparation, voter registration, and 

outreach to the community for various health related issues. 


Immigrants and refugees of all ethic groups 


Primarily the Great Springfield area 

COST: 

None 


Collaborates with other organizations in the Greater Springfield area to develop a 

comprehensive support network that best serves the needs of immigrant newcomers. 

STAFF: 

Hang Tane 



Also offers Community Access Program and a Family Empowerment Program. 




Palmer 


c/o Palmer Public Library 

1455 North Main Street 

Palmer, MA 01069 

413-283-2329 

E-mail address: mgaudette@palmer.lib.ma.us 


Office Hours: 

Monday 

noon – 5:00 p.m. 

Class Hours: 


9:00 am. – 8:00 p.m. 

Tuesday - Friday 

Friday 

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 


Saturday 

10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

Reading/Writing; ESOL; Pre-GED and GED; Financial Literacy; one-on-one tutoring, and 

classes 


Residents of Hampden, Hampshire, and Worcester Counties who are 16 years of age or 

older and who need to improve skills in reading, writing, GED preparation, Math, or 

ESOL 


Hampden, Hampshire, and Worcester Counties 

COST: 

$20 – classes (8-week sessions) 

$50 – one-to-one tutoring (6-month cycle with a minimum of 36 instructional hours) 



• Clapp Memorial Library, Belchertown 

• Hitchcock Free Academy, Brimfield 

• Hubbard Memorial Library, Ludlow 

• Monson Free Library 

• Warren Public Library 

• Wilbraham Public Library 

STAFF: 

Margaret Boyko 

Marsha Gaudette 

Ellen Leritz 

Brad Sperry 

Chief Executive Officer 

Director of Adult Literacy Programs 

ESL Tutor 

ESOL Tutor 


Program formerly known as Literacy Volunteers of American of Quaboag Valley 



Holyoke 



Suite 512 


413-532-4755 

Fax: (413) 532-4757 

and 

32-34 Hampden Street, Ground Floor 


(413) 732-2223 

Fax: (413) 732-2224 

Contact: Desiree LeClair, Regional Director 

E-mail address: dleclair@tra-inc.org 


Class Hours: 


9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Young Parents Program classes* 

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Food Stamp Education and training classes** 

9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Certified Nurse Aide/Home Aide Program trainings*** 


*Young Parents Program provides ABE, pre-GED/GED, Life Skills and parenting classes 

to TAFDC recipients aged 14 to 21 years old. 

**Food Stamp Education and Training Program provides ABE, pre-GED, GED computer 

training, and Work Readiness training to Food Stamp recipients who do not have 

dependent children. 

***Certified Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide Program provides training and certification in 

the C.N.A. and H.H.A. fields with job placement assistance. 


Department of Transitional Assistance recipients 




COST: 

None 


• Brockton 

• Fitchburg 

• Framingham 

• Holyoke 

• New Bedford 

• Quincy 

• Revere 

• Salem 

• Springfield 

• Worcester 

STAFF: 

Desiree Leclair 

Maryellen Ciocca 

Jessica King 

Ruth McCormick 

Becky Peterson 

Judie Seigiel 

Regional Director 

Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide/CPR 

Instructor 

Young Parents Program Case Manager 

(Springfield) 

Young Parents Program Instructor 

(Springfield) 

Young Parents Program Instructor/Case 

Manager (Holyoke) 

Job Developer (Holyoke) 


Training Resources of America, Inc. (formerly Mass Job Training, Inc.) is a private, nonprofit 

agency dedicated to providing education, training, and job placement assistance to 

income-eligible recipients in Hampden County. 

Programs are funded by the Department Transitional Assistance and the Regional 

Employment Board of Hampden County, Inc. 



Amherst 

University of Massachusetts – 

Labor/Management Workplace Education Program, The 

303 Goodell 

University of Massachusetts 


413-545-2031 

E-mail address: connolly@admin.umass.edu 


Office Hours: 


8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 


ABE, ESOL; GED; writing; math; leadership; communication; diversity; employer –union 

liaison services; all types of workplace education; computer classes; career growth 

services; Next Step classes; Social Justice and Diversity, Class Issues 


Services available to employees of the University of Massachusetts, residents of 

Huntington, Chester, and Holyoke; employees of the Springfield, Westfield, and East 

Longmeadow companies listed below. 


Primarily UMass employees, but also service other communities in WMass. 

COST: 

None 



• Central Berkshires/AFSCME 

• City of Westfield/AFSCME 

• City of Springfield/Associations 

• Hasbro/Retail Workers 

• Mayhew Steel/UE/GCC 

• Mt. Holyoke/UAW 

• Roundtable Liaison 

• Southern Hilltown Adult Education Center (S.H.A.E.C.) 

• Smith College/SEIU 

STAFF: 

Dr. Joseph Connolly 

Simeon Afouda 

Amy Brodigan 

Suhong Chang 

Dr. Daria Fisk 

Fran Fortino 

Leslie Fraser 

Nina Kositsky 

Carol Kim. 

Denise Pavao 

Gloria Santa Ana 

Chris Spicer 

Jane Litwin Taylor 

Violet Walker 

Coordinator (L/MWEP) 

Instructor 

Project Director 


L/MWEP Instructor Coordinator/Next Step 

Instructor/Roundtable Liaison 

ABE Instructor (Melville)/Computer 

Instructor 

Career Growth Coordinator 



Grant Data Coordinator 

Baystate Project Director 

S.H.A.E.C. Director 

Office Manager (L/MWEP) 


Staff shares responsibilities for Writing, Math, Communications, Computer, Leadership & 

Diversity classes 


Recognized for innovative methods by the College and University Personnel 

Association, Washington, D.C 



Chicopee 

Valley Opportunity Council – Adult Education Program 

Educational Opportunity Center for Greater Springfield 

35 Mt. Carmel Avenue 

Chicopee, MA 010113 

413-612-0206 

E-mail address: jbaatz@valleyopp.com 


Office Hours: 

Class Hours: 



9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. 

5:30 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. 


Six levels of ESOL; 3 levels of ABE (beginning to GED); Citizenship class (summer 

only); college access services that include locating and applying for financial aid, 

selecting and applying to the school best suited for the student, and choosing a major 


16 years of age and over, not currently enrolled in school. Targeting, but not restricted 

to, low-income. 


Chicopee, Holyoke, and surrounding community 

COST: 

None 



• Holyoke Community College 

• Springfield Mass Rehab Commission 

• Springfield Technical Community College 

• Urban League of Springfield 

• Future Works 


STAFF: 

Jane Baatz 

Judith Kocik 

Jeanne Almanzar 

Henry Balzarini 

Nina Dudley 

John Fiscella 

Joy Harrigan 

Anne Hennessey 


Marian Kelner 

Gail Needham 

Lynn Paju 

Al Picard 

Florence Rice 

VOC Director of Education Services 

Site Coordinator for Adult Education 

ABE Teacher 

Educational Advisor 

ABE Teacher 

ABE Teacher 

ESOL Teacher 

Secretary 

Workforce Counselor 

ESOL Teacher 

ESOL Teacher 

ABE Teacher 

Job Developer 

Educational Advisor 


Valley Opportunity Council, Inc. (VOC) administers these programs under subcontract 

with the Colleges of Worcester Consortium (COWC) and the Massachusetts Department 

of Elementary and Secondary Education. 

In addition to the adult focus of the EOC, the center also provides educational services 

to area youth through the Talent Search, Kids to College, and Gear-Up projects. 

These programs encourage and help middle school students to complete high school 

and pursue post-secondary education. Participants are recruited from targeted schools 

in Springfield and Holyoke. 

*Staff may be reached by 1 st initial, last name @valleyopp.com 



Chicopee 



103 Johnson Drive 

Chicopee, MA 01022 

413-593-5731, x4201 


Residential and Non-residential 

8:00 a.m. – 3:45 p.m. 


Academic, Career and Technical Training. Students have the opportunity to earn a GED 

or High School Diploma and certification in a Career and Technical field; Career 

Placement for graduates. 

Training Programs: Office Technologies, Health Occupations, Culinary Arts, Auto 

Repair Technology, Welding, Painting, Plastering, Electrical Wiring, Network Wiring, 

Plumbing, Brick Masonry, Carpentry, Computer Services Technology, Pharmacy 

Technician, Facilities Maintenance. 


Males and females between the ages of 16-24, U.S. citizen or legal resident; must meet 

income requirements; be willing and able to train in a drug-free and alcohol-free 

environment where they can take advantage of the training and resources provided. 


New England 

COST: 

None 


None 

STAFF: 

John Arthur 

Marlene Corales 

Business and Community Liaison 

Admissions 



Job Corps is a no-cost education and vocational training program funded by the United 

States Congress and administered by the U.S. Department of Labor. As a national, 

primarily residential, training program, Job Corps’ mission is to teach young people the 

skills that will help them to secure better jobs, make more money, and take control of 

their lives. Non-residential programs are also available. 

There are seven Job Corp Centers in New England; three are in Massachusetts. 

Recruiters are positioned at Westover Job Corp, CareerPoint, and FutureWorks to 

schedule appointments and process intake paperwork. 

Child Care. Some non-resident students needing day care for their child/children may 

qualify for use of the on-center Head Start Day Care Center. 



SMARTT AND TECHNOLOGY 

RESOURCES 



SMARTT Technology 

Specialists 

website – 

www.sabes.org/smartt 

If you would like more information about your local technology scene, or advice on how 

to implement a technology plan in your ABE program, they are the ones to ask. Their 

names and contact information follow: 

SABES REGION 

TECHNOLOGY 

SPECIALIST 

TELEPHONE 

E-MAIL 

Greater Boston - Adult 

Literacy Resource Center 

Central – Quinsigamond 

Community College 

Northeast – Northern 

Essex Community College 

Southeast – Bristol 


West – Holyoke 


Akira Kamiya (617) 287-4075 akira.kamiya@umb.edu 

Eunice Snay (617) 854-4514 esnay@qcc.mass.edu 

Patti Ball (978) 738-7303 pball@necc.mass.edu 

Dan Chisholm (508) 678-2811 x27 dchishol@bristol.mass.edu 

Charlie Herbert (413) 552-2019 cherbert@hcc.mass.edu 



Technology Resources: (Continued) 

SMARTT 

System for Managing Accountability 

and Results through Technology 

About SMARTT 

Data Collection 

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education – 

Adult and Community Learning Services 

Background: 

The Adult and Community Learning Services Cluster of the Massachusetts Department of 

Elementary and Secondary Education (MDESE) has implemented a web-based system for 

collecting data from adult education programs across the Commonwealth. The SMARTT ABE 

(System for Managing Accountability and Results through technology for ABE) is an individual 

student record system designed to measure and document learning gains on educational 

functioning levels. 

Allows programs to submit statistical data on performance directly to the Department without 

needing to pay the substantial time and money costs of managing the 

programs/”executables” and the data at the local level. 

Accessible 7 days a week, 22 hours per day. 

Allows users to define additional fields to enter site specific programic data, making the 

system more responsive to individual program needs. 

Highly secure and student confidentiality is assured. 

The SMARTT system is a management tools for local programs as well as providing data at the 

State and Federal levels. Features of the system that assist programs with data management 

are: 

• PROGRAM PLANNING – utilizes the rates system to determine funding amounts and 

provides the basis for completing the refunding package. 

• WAIT LIST – maintains waiting list data and allows programs to project future needs 

• SYSTEM REPORTS 

- assessment reports that calculate pre-post rates which assist programs to comply with 

our performance standard to pre- and post test students. 

- following-up reports that assist programs in determining if students goals were met and 

comply with NRS requirements 


- Attendance reports that show percent attendance based on funded class hours 

• COGNOS REPORTING TOOL – third-part tool with data cubes that list student demographics 

and participation data such as number of students, hour attended, goals attained, federal 

reports etc. 

• ABE DIRECTORY – lists all funded programs with contact information, class schedule, 

seats available, and current wait list. 

Value of the System at the Local Level: 

Tools for program design that calculates eligible cost, student hours, cost per student, etc. 

Tool to assist programs in tracking student attendance, goal attainment, and student progress 

Gives programs a quantitative view of the data at any point in time and for multiple categories 

Allows programs to maintain waiting list data and project future program needs 

Value of the System at the State Level: 

Provides up to date wait list information by service type and level so that the state can 

lobby for additional funding 

Allows the state to have an accurate update picture of program’s level of compliance of 

our guidelines to make equitable funding decisions 

Provides current program information regarding performance measure such as student 

participation, student goal attainment, and student learning gains 

Provides follow-up information required under NRS 

Transfer data between the Department o Employment and Training a database and the 

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) database to share intake 

information, integrate testing results, and capture referrals between On-Stop Career 

Centers and ABE Learning Centers. 

A comprehensive analysis of data collection through the SMARTT data system provides 

a means to track performance indicators for each eligible provider and allows everyone 

involved in oversight and program development activities to keep abreast of program 

needs. 

Contact: 

Donna Cornellier, Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education – Adult 

and Community Learning Services 

Phone (781-338-3814 Fax: 781-338-3394 Email: dcorniellier@doe.mass.edu 


LiteracyTent 

Welcome to literacytent.org, home of LiteracyTent. See the latest news about what's happening! 

If you're new to LiteracyTent and want to learn more about it, please see our About/FAAQ page 

("Frequently Asked and Anticipated Questions"). 

Founded in 2000, LiteracyTent is a collection of technical services for the field of adult literacy, 

including website hosting and email, mailing lists, document archives, file sharing, and online 

courses. Many services are free, and the rest we price as reasonably as we can manage. 

Take a look around, and please send in feedback with any ideas or questions you might have. 

Enjoy! 

the LiteracyTent staff 

Services 

LiteracyTent provides a wide range of technical services to the field of literacy. We try to balance 

the cost of providing the services with the goal of helping as many people as possible in our 

chronically underfunded field. Some services are free; the rest we price as affordably as we can. 

The support of people using the pay services is what makes the free services possible. We 

appreciate all of the support of the people using them! 

The following table summarizes the services available on LiteracyTent: 

Service Free? Link 

Web hosting No Web Hosting information 

Webmail/email No Webmail/email information 

Mailing lists No * Mailing list information 

Online courses Yes Online courses information 

File sharing Yes File sharing information 

Document archive Yes 

Document archive 

LiteracyTent is a project of Silicon Goblin Technologies. 




ONE-STOP REGIONAL CAREER 

CENTERS & 

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 

CENTERS 



REGIONAL ONE-STOP CAREER CENTERS 

BerkshireWorks 

Pittsfield Office 

160 North Street 


(413) 499-2220 x114 

FAX: (413) 499-0503 

North Adams Office 


North Adams, MA 01247 

(413) 499-2220 x114 

FAX: (413) 499-0503 

Contact: Melanie Gelaznik. Manager of Program Operations 

E-mail: mgelaznik@berkshireworks.org 

BerkshireWorks is a partnership between Berkshire Training & Employment Program 

and the Massachusetts Division of Career Services, chartered by the Berkshire 

County Regional Employment Board, Inc. Together, they provide access to 

comprehensive system of employment-focused programs and services for 

businesses, job seekers, workers, and employers. 

BerkshireWorks offers a wide range of services and resources to assist client with 

career exploration. Whether looking for that first job, career advancement, or 

occupational training, the career center can identify resources to help. 

Hours: 

8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (M-F) 

JOBSEEKER SERVICES 

Career assessment and counseling 

Job search Assistance 

Direct referrals 

Career development resources to promote career advancement or new 

employment opportunities. 

On-site unemployment representative for walk-in claims on a first come, first 

serve basis. 

Trainings covering a variety of topics such as Introduction to Career Center 

Services, Resume Writing, Networking and Interviewing Skills, and Job 

Search Strategies, and computer literacy. 


ONE-STOP CAREER CENTERS/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER: 

(Continued) 

Berkshire Works: (Continued) 

EMPLOYER SERVICES 

Assistance with Pre-Layoff Seminars 

Community resource Information 

Current labor market Information 

Use of Career Center for job fairs and employment forums 

Recruitment, screening, and referral of appropriate jobseekers 

Information, education and services on demand empowering each customer 

to compete in today’s continuously changing labor market 

Local job postings and national listings 

Innovative marketing to prospective employees 

Current labor market Information 

Please visit our website at www.berkshireworks.org 

for a complete listing of Career Center Services. 


ONE-STOP CAREER CENTERS/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER: (Continued) 

CareerPoint 



(413) 532-4900 / (888) 421-8919 (toll-free) 

FAX: (413) 532-0293 

Webpage: www.careerpointma.org 

Contact: David Gadaire, Executive Director 

E-mail: dgadaire@careerpointma.org 

CareerPoint is a private, nonprofit corporation which brings together the 

combined expertise of the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, the 

Massachusetts Division of Career Services, Holyoke Community College, 

the UMass/Donahue Institute, and the Department of Transitional 

Assistance. Their mission is to develop a strong workforce system by 

enhancing the competitive strengths of companies, improving the skills of 

employees and jobseeker and expanding career opportunities for citizens 

through economic development. 

Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (M, W, F) 

9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (T) 

10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Th) 

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Sat) 

Available free of charge. 

Jobseekers Service 

Resource Library. Information on the labor market, job openings, schools and 

training organizations. Fully equipped with computerized workstations, telephones, 

Internet access, a career development library, and up-to-date job listings. 

Workshops. Covering topics ranging from career exploration and job interviewing to 

practical needs. 

Individualized Career Counseling. The multicultural team of career counselors is 

highly skilled at working with individuals from all walks of life and with all types of 

career development needs. 


ONE-STOP CAREER CENTERS/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER: (Continued) 

CareerPoint: (Continued) 

Job Search Assistance. Career counselors work in tandem with employer 

representatives at CareerPoint using computerized data banks and traditional 

sources to identify job leads and assist jobseekers in finding the right career match. 

Guided Resume Development. Available for individuals and groups. 

Assessment Tools. Assistance for people in career transition to help them identify 

their skills, interests, and values and other factors as they choose a career. 

Computer Training. Assistance in developing basic computer literacy on the most 

popular systems and applications. 

Information and Referral to Additional Training. 

Information on Community Agencies and Services. Includes information on 

unemployment insurance and other financial assistance available. 

Employer Services 

Available free of charge. 

Recruitment, Screening, and Referral of Job Applicants. 

Dedicated Employer Account Representatives for Each Business Customer. 

Up to date Labor Market Information. 

Outplacement Assistance. 

Note: Staff development trainings and room rentals are available for a fee. 


ONE-STOP CAREER CENTERS/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTERS: 

(Continued) 

Franklin ♦ Hampshire Career Center 

In Franklin County 

One Arch Place 


(413) 774-436 

FAX: (413) 784-1765 

E-mail: dradway@detma.org 

In Hampshire County 

178 Industrial Drive 


(413) 586-6506 

FAX: (413) 784-1170 

E-mail: aswider@detma.org 

Come and visit us. 

Put Us to Work for You 

Our mission is to help each customer secure employment and/or education to enhance 

his/her economic situation and to help employers find workers with skills and capabilities 

who will be productive on the job. 

A Massachusetts One-Stop Career Center connecting… 

EMPLOYEES 

EMPLOYERS 

COMMUNITY 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. 

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon 

request to individuals with disabilities. 

Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Monday -Thursday) 

9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Friday) 


www.FHCC-onestop.com / www.detma.org 



Franklin Hampshire Career Center: (Continued) 

JOB SEEKER SERVICES 

EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT 

On-site employer recruiting allows 

you to interview with area employers 

at either of our office locations 

CAREER ENRICHMENT WORKSHOPS 

Resume writing, interviewing skills, 

and job search techniques are 

offered to enhance employment 

efforts 

EMPLOYMENT SPECIALISTS 

Personalized one-to-one advice and 

help in identifying job leads and 

direct referrals 

INFORMATION AND REFERRALS TO 

TRAINING 

GED preparation and Adult Basic 

Education 

English as another language 

U.S. Veterans’ Services 

Occupational Training 

Older Worker Assistance Program 

RESOURCE AREA & COMPUTER LAB 

Access to the Internet and the www 

Current job listings 

Labor market information 

Computers to do resumes and cover 

letters 

Information to access other 

community service agencies for 

financial assistance, medical, and 

housing, etc. 

AMERICA’S JOB BANK/MASS JOB QUEST 

Country-wide access to job openings 

EMPLOYER SERVICES 

RECRUITMENT 

Applicants are referred to on-site 

employer representatives at 

scheduled recruitment event 

STATEWIDE TALENT BANK PROGRAM 

Computerized searches of qualified 

job-ready people 

EMPLOYER DATABANK 

Employer information on hiring 

policies, procedures, benefits, work 

environment characteristics 

EMPLOYMENT/SELECTION INFORMATION 

Information on legal responsibilities 

employers need to know for 

successful recruiting/hiring 

Program information on 

employment, education and training 

services 

Current labor market data 

ADA consultations & employment 

assessment assistance 

Wage & Salary information 

EMPLOYER ACCOUNT PROGRAM 

An individual customer service plan 

is designed between the employer 

and employer representative 

Dedicated employer representatives 

are assigned to business customers 

Information on Economic 

Development and Workforce 

Training Funds 

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE 

Walk-in center for unemployment 

insurance claims 


Western Massachusetts Profiles of Regional Adult Literacy Programs, summer 2009 edition 170 

.


(Continued) 

FutureWorks, Inc. 

One Federal Street - Building 103-3 

Springfield, MA 01105-1160 

(413) 858-2800 

FAX: (413) 858-2810 

Webpage: www.getajob.cc 

Contact: Rexene Picard, Director 

E-mail: rpicard@getajob.cc 

Serving jobseekers and employers in Hampden County, the Center assists 

clients to develop methods for managing their careers, discover the hidden job 

market, conduct a creative job search with skilled professional staff, and learn 

how to demonstrate their personal value to employers. Welcome Session 

provides an introduction to all of the services available. Clients are encouraged 

to take a tour of the Center and schedule the services of their choice. (Brochure 

available thru FutureWorks.) Most services provided free of charge. 

Administrative Support 

Experienced staff available to help 

with questions about employers and 

the job market 

Resource Room 

Job postings, employer directories & other information 

about community resources 

Computer Stations 

w/Internet Access 

Career Seminars 

Finding job leads, developing a resume, 

interviewing and negotiating salary 

Work Stations 

Equipped w/telephones to make call 

to employers and use for self-directed 

job search 

FutureWorks 

Video Interviewing 

Career Specialist 

Appointments 

Computer Trainings 

Job Fairs 

Workshops 

Devoted to job search topics 



(Continued) 

FutureWorks: Continued: 

Additional Comments: 

Visit website – www.futureworks-now.com - for schedule of workshops and 

computer labs being offered each month, along with other valuable information to 

assist in job searches. 


ONE-STOP CAREER CENTERS/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 

CENTERS: (Continued) 

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTERS 

Franklin-Hampshire Employment 

and Training Consortium 

One Arch Place, 3 rd Floor 


(413) 774-4361 

FAX: (413) 784-1765 

Website: www.FHCC-onestop.com 

Contact: Irene “Reenie” Wood 

E-mail: Iwood@detma.org 

Franklin-Hampshire Employment and Training is responsible for the administrative 

oversight and contract management of all Workforce Investment Act (WIA), and some 

Department of Transitional Assistance education and training programs for Franklin and 

Hampshire Counties and the North Quabbin area. 

Services are available to qualifying Franklin and Hampshire County residents: 

Dislocated workers who have been permanently laid off from their previous jobs 

Economically disadvantaged adults who meet low income guidelines; and 

At-risk youths (ages 14-21) 

 

The Franklin-Hampshire Career Center is a partnership of the State Division of Career 

Services and other area education and community service agencies. 



WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTERS: (Continued) 

High Stakes Testing and 

Computer-Based Learning Center 

Kittredge Center for Business and Professional Development - 204 


Holyoke, MA 01040-1099 

Contacts: 

Keith M. Hensley, Dean of Workforce Development/ 

Executive Director of the Center for Business and Professional 

Development 

(413) 552-2506 

E-mail: khensley@hcc.mass.edu 

Elaine Hebert-Dancik, Coordinator of High Stakes Testing and Computer- 

Based Learning Center 

(413) 552-2112 

FAX: (413) 552-2745 

E-mail: ehebertdancik@hcc.medu 

Located in the Kittredge Center for Business and Professional Development, the HCC 

High Stakes Testing Center and Computer-Based Learning Center is a state-of-the-art 

testing and training site that provides area businesses and the community with an 

unmatched testing experience. The Center’s mission is to meet the area’s workforce 

needs for better-trained workers in growing career areas and computer-based training in 

over 2,000 training topics anytime, anywhere. It offers “high stakes” licensure and 

certification testing for trade/professional exams as well as occupational analysis. 

The Center works with the country’s most well-known and respected provider for testing 

and computer-based training in the fields of: Medical/Healthcare, Government, IT, 

Automotive, Professional Association Sectors, Education, Real Estate and Accounting. 

ACT 

CASTLEWORLDWIDE 

ED2GO 

ETS 

GATLIN EDUCATION SERVICES 

KRYTERION 

MISCROSOFT 

ONLC 

PEARSON VUE 

PROMETRIC 

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTERS: (Continued) 


Training and Testing 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

Adult Literacy / Employability Skills 

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) 

Certification and Licensure Testing 

CLEP 

Computer Basics 

IC3 (Internet and Computer Core Certification) 

Industrial Technology and Safety Skills 

Information Technology 

Management/Leadership and Small Business Operation 

MOS (Microsoft Office Specialist International Exams) 

Professional and Personal Development 

Skill-Specific Training 

WorkKeys Testing Workplace Assessment 

Who Can Use the Test Cent? 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

Business and Industry 

Government programs and Workforce Investment Boards 

Individuals interested in development and career advancement 

Students 

Benefits 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

⋅ 

Offers computer-based training anywhere, anytime and testing when needed – “just-intime” 

or ‘”on demand” 

Provides convenient, accessible, and consistent quality 

Serves varying levels of skill attainment 

Creates opportunities for flexible, convenient “learning packages” based on your needs 

Provides an on-line extension to face-to-face training 

Offers workers portable, relevant, marketable skills 

Provides up-to-date records of employee training and achievements 

New training programs continuously added to a growing courseware repository 

Business and organizations can deliver their own training over the network 

The HCC Test Center provides customer service to help students along the way – they 

are not on their own. 

The Holyoke Community College High Stakes Testing and Computer-Based Learning 

Center can provide real solutions by helping employers search for qualified trained 

workers and helping individuals improve their vocation and educational skills. 

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER: (Continued) 


Training Resources of America, Inc. - Holyoke 

Holyoke Office 

225 High Street, Suite 512 


Telephone: (413) 532-4755 

FAX: (413) 532-4757 

Springfield Office 

32-34 Hampden Street, Ground Floor 


Telephone: (413) 732-2223 

FAX: (413) 732-2224 

Contact: Desiree LeClair, Regional Director 

E-mail: dleclair@tra-inc.org 

Training Resources of America, Inc. is a private, non-profit agency dedicated to providing 

education, training, and job placement assistance to income-eligible recipients in Hampden 

County. 

Young Parents Program: Provides ABE, pre-GED, GED, Life Skills, and Parenting classes 

to TAFDC recipients aged 14 to 21 years old. 

Hours: M-F, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Food Stamp Education and Training Program: Provides ABE, pre-GED, GED, computer 

training, and Work Readiness training to Food Stamp recipients who do not have dependent 

children. 


Certified Nurse Aide/Home Health Aide Program: Provides training and certification in the 

C.N.A. and H.H.A. fields with job placement assistance. 


Programs are funded by the Department of Transitional Assistance and the Regional 

Employment Board of Hampden County, Inc. 



APPENDICES: 

• APPENDIX A: COMMON ABBREVIATIONS IN ADULT 

EDUCATION 

• APPENDIX B: MASSACHUSETTS ADULT LITERACY 

HOTLINE 

• APPENDIX C: AMERICA’S LITERACY DIRECTORY 



APPENDIX-A 

COMMON ABBREVIATIONS 

IN ADULT EDUCATION 

AAACE: The American Association for Adult and Continuing Education provides leadership for 

the field of adult and continuing education by expanding opportunities for adult growth and 

development. 

ABE: Adult Basic Education an umbrella term used to describe a range of educational services 

for adults from basic literacy (including English for non-native speakers of English), numeracy, 

and high school equivalency (GED)/adult diploma programs (ADP), and ASE. 

ABE Teacher's License: A voluntary license for MA adult literacy teachers. 

ABLE: Adult Basic Learning Exam 

ACLS: Adult and Community Learning Services is a unit at the MA Department of Elementary 

and Secondary Education (DESE) that oversees and improves no-cost basic educational 

services (ABE) for adults in Massachusetts. ACLS funds programs in Massachusetts to provide 

educational services to adults with academic skill levels below 12th grade, and/or adults who 

need English language skills to succeed in our communities. 

ADA: The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination and ensures equal 

opportunity for persons with disabilities in employment, state and local government services, 

public accommodations, commercial facilities, and transportation. 

ADP/EDP: The Adult Diploma Program/External Diploma Program is designed for individuals at 

least 18 years old who have acceptable basic skills in reading, writing and math. The ADP 

provides an alternative way of earning a high school diploma. To earn a high school diploma, a 

student completes assignments and demonstrates general life skills in the following areas: 

Community Awareness, Personal and Family Health, Occupational Preparedness, Personal and 

Social Awareness, Consumer Awareness, Individual Skill Area. Credit may also be given for 

program specific areas such as history, high school math and/or employment and training. 

Adult Literacy Hotline: The Massachusetts Adult Literacy Hotline provides referrals to 

programs that offer one-on-one tutoring, small group or classroom instruction to adult learners. 

Callers will receive information about basic reading, math, adult basic education, English 

language training, family literacy, GED preparation or testing sites. The Hotline can help adult 

learners and volunteer literacy tutors locate the most convenient programs and GED testing 

sites across the state. 


COMMON ABBREVIATIONS IN ADULT EDUCATION: (Continued) 

AEA: Adult Education Act 

AEH: Adult Education for the Homeless 

AFL-CIO (MA): The major duties of the Mass AFL-CIO are political education, legislative action, 

organizing and education & training. The state federation also advocates on a wide range of 

topical issues, including: jobs, the economy, workers compensation, health and safety in the 

workplace, paid family leave, welfare and unemployment insurance benefits, collective 

bargaining issues, etc. 

AL: Adult Literacy 

ALC: Adult Learning Center 

ALRI: Adult Literacy Resource Institute (Boston) 

ANPN: Adult Numeracy Practitioners Network 

ASE: Adult Secondary Education 

Assessment Policy (ACLS): An assessment policy was developed for MA Department of 

Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)-funded programs to provide guidance in 

reporting scores to show students' educational gain. The policies require that programs to use 

the TABE test for ABE learners, the BEST Plus for ESOL learners seeking to improve their oral 

skills, and the REEP for ESOL learners seeking to improve their writing skills. The Assessment 

Policy and Procedures Manual can be found on the ACLS website (under Assessment News) at 

http://www.doe.mass.edu/acls/news.html. 

BALF: Boston Adult Literacy Fund 

BEST: The Building Essential Skills through Training initiative provides education and training 

through interagency partnerships; managed by Commonwealth Corporation. 

BEST-Plus: BEST Plus is a recent adaptation of the Basic Skills English Test (BEST) oral 

interview. Like the original BEST test, BEST-Plus assesses interpersonal communication using 

everyday language. The BEST-Plus is one of four ABE standardized assessments required by 

the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The three 

other assessments tools are the TABE, MAPT, and the REEP Writing Assessment. 

BHE: The MA Board of Higher Education oversees the public higher education system, 

including the University of MA, MA state college system, and the MA community college system. 

The BHE is a key partner in the Reach Higher Initiative. 

BOE: Board of Education 

CAE: Committee on Adult Education 



CAL: The Center for Applied Linguistics is a private, non-profit organization. CAL is a group of 

scholars and educators who use the findings of linguistics and related sciences to identify and 

address language-related problems. CAL carries out a wide range of activities including 

research, teacher education, analysis and dissemination of information, design and 

development of instructional materials, technical assistance, conference planning, program 

evaluation, and policy analysis. 

CALL: Computer-Assisted Language Learning 

CASAS: The Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment System provides resources for 

instruction and assessment. CASAS provides competency-based curriculum and assessment 

tools to help ABE learners in attaining basic literacy skills to function effectively on the job, in the 

community and in the family. 

CBWL: Center for Business, Work and Learning (MA) 

CBO: Community Based Organization 

CDBG: Community Development Block Grant 

CDC: Center for Disease Control (NIH) 

CDEP: Citizenship and Democracy Education Project 

CDL: Commercial Drivers License 

CEP: Citizenship Education Project 

CHOC: County House of Corrections 

CAL: The Center for Applied Linguistics is a private, non-profit organization. CAL is a group of 

scholars and educators who use the findings of linguistics and related sciences to identify and 

address language-related problems. CAL carries out a wide range of activities including 

research, teacher education, analysis and dissemination of information, design and 

development of instructional materials, technical assistance, conference planning, program 

evaluation, and policy analysis. 

Career Centers: Thirty-two One-Stop Career Centers in MA offer employment services for job 

seekers and assistance to employers in finding qualified workers. The Department of Workforce 

Development charters career centers and the local charter process is operated by the local 

Workforce Investment Board. Under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), a variety of state 

agencies are mandated to support career center operations to ensure that they are a onestop 

system. ACLS is a mandated partner of the Career Center, as are the MA Rehabilitation 

Commission, the MA Commission for the Blind, the Department of Transitional Assistance, and 

veterans' services. 



COABE: The Commission on Adult Basic Education is organized to advance national and 

international adult education and literacy opportunities for all persons. COABE's mission is to 

provide leadership, communication, professional development and advocacy for adult education 

and literacy practitioners in order to advance quality services for all adult learners. 

COGNOS: A web-based software application used by the Massachusetts Department of 

Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to report data input into SMARTT. SABES offers 

ABE practitioners on-going training in the access and use of COGNOS. 

CommCorp: Commonwealth Corporation is a quasi-public organization responsible for 

administering and delivering a wide range of public and privately-funded initiatives designed to 

meet the labor needs of businesses; improve current and emerging workers' skills; foster career 

success through lifelong learning; and retain, sustain, improve and create job-generating 

businesses. 

Community Planning: The purpose of the Mass. DESE's Community Planning requirement is 

to ensure that the needs of all under-educated and/or limited English proficient constituencies 

are accounted for, and that strategic plans are developed that identify how and when every such 

constituency will ultimately be served. 

Countable Outcomes: The ACLS Countable Outcomes policy is the culmination of the work of 

the past decade. It includes the outcomes required by the National Reporting System, as well as 

the incorporation of student goals related to family and community outcomes. Through this 

policy, ACLS hopes to support learner centered practice that serves students, teachers and 

programs, as well as promote broader public policies that enhance the work done in ABE 

classrooms in many different settings throughout the state. 

CRC: Central Resource Center (SABES) 

Curriculum Frameworks: The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary 

Education (DESE), with experienced adult education practitioners, has developed seven 

curriculum frameworks for use by adult basic education programs. These outline what adults 

need to know and be able to do, and explain the principles for enabling adult learners to 

succeed. The frameworks include: English Language Arts, English for Speakers of Other 

Languages (ESOL), Mathematics and Numeracy, History and the Social Sciences, Health, and 

Science and Technology/Engineering. The seventh, the Common Chapters for the 

Massachusetts Adult Basic Education Curriculum Frameworks, is a short overall exploration of 

why curriculum frameworks are important and how they can be used. 

DAEL: The mission of the Division of Adult Education and Literacy, of the US DOE is to 

supplement and complement the efforts of states, the local school systems, the private sector, 

public and private nonprofit educational research institutions, community-based organizations, 

parents, and students to improve the quality of education. 

DCS: Division of Career Services (MA) formerly part of the Division of Employment and 

Training, operates employment service programs, the Workforce Training Fund, and oversees 

the state's 32 One-Stop Career Centers. 



DESE: Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (formerly the Massachusetts 

Department of Education. Name change applicable only in Massachusetts) 

Distance Learning (DL): As defined by The American Center for the Study of Distance 

Education, Penn State, "Distance education is planned learning that normally occurs in a 

different place from teaching and as a result requires special techniques of course design, 

special instructional techniques, special methods of communication by electronic and other 

technology, as well as special organizational and administrative arrangements." 

DOC: Department of Corrections (MA) 

DOE: Department of Education, MA (The former name of MA Department of Elementary and 

Secondary Education.) 

DOL: U S Department of Labor 

DTA: MA Department of Transitional Assistance, MA 

DUA: The MA Division of Unemployment Assistance (formerly DET- The Division of 

Unemployment Assistance) administers the Unemployment Insurance program, the Medical 

Security Plan and produces Massachusetts' jobs and economic data. 

DYS: The MA Division of Youth Services is a state agency that serves at risk and courtinvolved 

youth. 

ECCLI: Extended Care Career Ladder Initiative, a Massachusetts state funded program that 

supports career advancement for entry level extended care and homecare employees. 

EDP: External Diploma Program 

EFF: Equipped for the Future is a national initiative that seeks to understand what 

adults need to know and be able to do in order to carry out their roles and 

responsibilities as workers, parents and family members, citizen and community 

members. 

EL Civics: English Literacy and Civics Education Program is an integrated program of 

educational services to immigrants and other limited English proficient populations to acquire 

the basic skills they need to function effectively as parents, workers, and citizens. 

EOCD: Executive Office of Communities and Development 

EOLWD: Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development 

EPRS: Evaluation Performance Review System 

ESOL/ESL: English for Speakers of Other Languages/English as a Second Language 



Even Start: Even Start is a comprehensive, federally funded, family literacy demonstration 

program. Even Start has 5 required program components: adult education; age appropriate 

education for children (0-7); parent and child time together (interactive literacy); parenting 

education; and home visits to reinforce learning at home. 

Family Literacy (FL): The Massachusetts Family Literacy Consortium defines family literacy 

as coordinated learning among different generations in the same family, which helps both 

adults, and children reach their full personal, social, and economic potential. 

FTE: Full-time Equivalent – the percentage of the salary (or salaries) the grant is supporting. 

GED (General Educational Development): Massachusetts High School Equivalency Diploma: 

(commonly referred to as "the GED") is the credential earned for successfully meeting the score 

requirements on the battery of five tests of General Educational Development. 

GEDTS (GED Testing Service): Based in Washington, DC, this agency oversees the 

development and administration of the GED tests worldwide. 

GLE: Grade Level Equivalency 

Homeless, Adult Education for the Homeless: ABE and or ESOL services for 

undereducated and limited English proficient individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate 

nighttime residence. 

IDC: (Indirect Costs) The Department of Education (DESE in MA) determines an indirect cost 

rate for each city, town, or regional school district for application to state and federal grants and 

contracts, unless prohibited by federal regulations. The rates are developed for school districts 

as the maximum allowable rate for a given fiscal year. 

INS: Immigration and Naturalization Services, branch of U.S. 

IRCA: Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (“the Amnesty Law”) 

JTPA: Job Training & Partnership 

LD: (Learning Disabilities) A learning disability is a neurological condition that interferes with a 

person's ability to store, process, or produce information. Learning disabilities can affect one's 

ability to read, write, speak, spell, compute math, reason and also affect a person's attention, 

memory, coordination, social skills and emotional maturity. 

LEA: Local Educational Agency 

Learning Modalities: The different ways that information is taken in, for example, visual (with 

eyes), auditory (with ears), tactile (through touch), and kinesthetic (through movement). 

LEP: Limited English Proficient 



Letter of Certification: The official document verifying that an individual has earned a 

Massachusetts High School Equivalency Diploma, emblematic of passing the GED tests, 

usually issued when a tester has misplaced his or her original diploma. 

LINCS: Literacy Information and Communication System, see National Institute for Literacy 

(NIFL) 

Literacy: The term "literacy", as defined by the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 means an 

individual's ability to read, write, and speak in English, compute, and solve problems, at levels of 

proficiency necessary to function on the job, in the family of the individual, and in society 

LVA: Literacy Volunteers of America, Inc. is a fully integrated national network of local, state, 

and regional literacy providers that give adults and their families the opportunity to acquire skills 

to be effective in their roles as members of their families, communities, and workplaces. 

LVM: Literacy Volunteers of Massachusetts 

LWIB: (Local Workforce Investment Board) Massachusetts has sixteen LWIB regions (also 

referred to as SDA regions) that represent the workforce development areas as defined by the 

federal government and as referenced in the Workforce Investment Act. These include: 

Berkshire, Boston, Bristol, Brockton Area, Cape Cod and the Islands, Central MA, 

Franklin/Hampshire, Greater Lowell, Hampden, Lower Merrimack Valley, Metro North, Metro 

South/West, New Bedford Area, North Central, North Shore, and South Coastal. Local 

Workforce Investment Boards have policy oversight of the publicly funded workforce 

development activities/services offered throughout the regions. Also known as Regional 

Employment Boards (REB) in come counties. 

MAPT: The Massachusetts Adult Proficiency Test (MAPT) is one of four ABE standardized 

assessments required by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary 

Education (DESE). The three other assessments tools are the TABE, Best Plus, and the REEP 

Writing Assessment. Testing is mandated by the US Department of Education to use valid and 

reliable assessments to report students’ completion of educational functioning levels. The 

State’s assessment policy requires programs to use the MAPT for all learners enrolled in ABE 

classes, except for those in Corrections programs and Workplace Education programs that do 

not have access to computers. 

MassAAL: The Massachusetts Alliance for Adult Literacy is an organization formed by current 

and former students of adult literacy programs, including Adult Basic Education, ESOL, and 

GED. MassAAL is funded by the MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 

(DESE), Adult and Community Learning Services. 

Massachusetts High School Equivalency Diploma: Commonly referred to as "the GED," 

the credential earned for successfully meeting the score requirements on the battery of five 

tests of General Educational Development. 



MATSOL: Massachusetts Association of Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages 

is a statewide group whose mission is to provide professional development and support to 

educators working with English language learners. 

MBLC: The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners is the agency of state government 

with the statutory authority and responsibility to organize, develop, coordinate and improve 

library services throughout the Commonwealth. 

MCAE: The Massachusetts Coalition for Adult Education is a statewide membership 

organization of educators, adult students, and others who support equal educational 

opportunities for adults. 

MCET: Massachusetts Corporation for Educational Telecommunications 

MCI: Massachusetts Correctional Institute 

MDESE: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (Formerly known 

as the Massachusetts Department of Education.) 

MEETS: Massachusetts Education Employment & Training System 

MFLC: The Massachusetts Family Literacy Consortium is a statewide initiative with the mission 

of forging effective partnerships among state agencies, community organizations, and other 

interested parties to expand and strengthen family literacy and support. 

MIRA: The Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition is committed to 

promoting the rights, opportunities, and well-being of immigrant and refugee communities. Their 

work focuses on policy advocacy, public education, capacity building and leadership 

development in newcomer communities. 

MOA: A Memorandum of Agreement is a formal document that delineates roles and 

responsibilities in collaborative partnerships. 

MOU: A Memorandum of Understanding is a formal document that delineates roles and 

responsibilities in formal partnerships. An MOU is used between local Workforce Investment 

Boards and other entities regarding collaborations to support operation of the MA One-Stop 

Career Centers. 

MOSES: The MA One-Stop Employment System supports the Division of Career Services 

integrated One-Stop approach. Staff at Career Centers enter data into MOSES during intake. 

Additionally, MOSES has an internet version for job seekers, employers and training providers. 

NAEP: National Assessment of Education Programs 

NALEO: National Association of Latin Elected Officials 

NALS: National Adult Literacy Survey 



NCAL: National Center on Adult Literacy was established with a grant from the U.S. Department 

of Education. NCAL's mission incorporates three primary goals: to improve understanding of 

youth and adult learning, to foster innovation and increase effectiveness in youth and adult 

basic education and literacy work, and to expand access to information and build capacity for 

literacy and basic skills service provision. 

NCFL: The mission of the National Center for Family Literacy is to create educational and 

economic opportunity for the most at-risk children and parents. 

NCLC: The National Center for ESL Literacy Education focuses on the language and literacy 

education of adults and out-of-school youth learning English. NCLE is a resource for researchbased 

materials and information for teachers, program directors, researchers, policy makers, 

immigrants and US residents whose native language is other than English. 

NCSALL: The National Center for the Study of Adult Learning and Literacy was a federally 

funded research and development center focused solely on adult learning. It’s website still 

exists. 

NCTE: National Council of Teachers of English 

NCTM: National Council for Teachers of Mathematics 

NELRC: New England Literacy Resource Center. The mission of NELRC is to strengthen adult 

literacy services in New England through sharing and collaborative special projects among 

State Literacy Resource Centers (SLRC) or their equivalents, adult literacy practitioners and 

policy-makers in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and 

Vermont. 

NESA: The mission of the National Even Start Association is to provide a national voice and 

vision for Even Start Family Literacy programs 

NGA: The National Governors' Association is the funder of the Reach Higher initiative 

managed by Commonwealth Corporation 

NGO: Non-Governmental Organization 

NIFL: The National Institute for Literacy is administered by the Secretaries of Education, Labor, 

and Health and Human Services. Most of NIFL's funds support programs and services designed 

to improve the quality of literacy programs nationwide. 

NIH: National Institute of Health 

NLL: Native Language Literacy-see pre-literacy for Speakers of other languages for ESOL 



NRS: The National Reporting System for Adult Education is an outcome-based reporting 

system for state administered, federally funded adult education programs. Developed with the 

support of the U.S. Department of Education's Division of Adult Education and Literacy (DAEL), 

the NRS continues to promote a cooperative process with state adult education directors and 

DAEL to identify appropriate learner outcomes for adult education 

NUCLI: Nursing Career Ladder Initiative, managed by Commonwealth Corporation, aims to 

increase access to nursing programs in MA by developing a nursing career ladder. 

NWLP: National Workplace Literacy Program 

OERI: Office of Educational Research and Improvement (U.S. DOE) 

ORI: The Office for Refugees and Immigrants is responsible for oversight of refugee 

resettlement and immigrant and newcomer programs in Massachusetts. 

OTAN: Outreach and Technical Assistance Network (CA) 

OVAE: The Office of Vocational and Adult Education, (Division of Adult Education, U S DOE) 

provides information on adult education and literacy, career and technical education, high 

schools, community colleges, and much more. 

PAWG: The Performance and Accountability Working Group is made up of teachers and 

directors of ABE programs and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) 

staff who are working together to develop recommendations for performance accountability in 

adult basic education programs. 

PEP: Peer Evaluation Process 

Perkins (Carl B.): This funding authorizes federal legislation for funding of the nation's 

vocational technical school systems. 

PPT: Pregnant, Parenting Teens 

Pre-ASA: Pre-Adult Secondary Education 

Pre-literacy for Speakers of other languages for ESOL, formerly Native Language Literacy, 

uses state and Federal funds to address the needs of large numbers of adults lacking functional 

literacy (i.e., below "6th grade or equivalent") in the same native language, other than English. 

These services must be accompanied with instruction in English for Speakers of Other 

languages. 

PS (Program Specialist): ACLS Program Specialists provide technical assistance and 

oversight to ABE programs as well as special initiatives such as Family Literacy, Even Start and 

Workplace Education, Distance Learning, etc. 



Reach Higher: An initiative managed by Commonwealth Corporation through a grant by the 

National Governor's Association to connect the MA public higher education system, especially 

community colleges, with the MA workforce development system. 

REB: Regional Employment Board - see LWIB 

REEP: The Arlington (Virginia) Education and Employment Program (REEP) developed the 

REEP test to assess ESOL learners' writing skills in English. MA DESE-funded programs use 

the REEP to report ESOL students' educational gain. Tests are scored using a rubric that 

measures English language writing facility across five areas: content and vocabulary; 

organization and development; structure; mechanics; and voice. The REEP is one of four ABE 

standardized assessments required by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and 

Secondary Education (DESE). The three other assessments tools are the Best-Plus, MAPT 

and the TABE. 

RFP (Request for Proposals): The MDESE notifies all school districts and other interested 

parties about the availability of grants through the Request for Proposals (RFP) process. There 

are three formats for Requests for Proposals, each providing specific and related information 

about the included grant program(s). Most Requests for Proposals are found on the Grants 

Management web site: http://finance1.doe.mass.edu/grants/ 

Roundtable: The MA Worker Education Roundtable is a statewide network of unionists, 

educators and labor-management education programs. Their mission is to promote and provide 

high quality education programs for Massachusetts' union members. The Worker Education 

Roundtable is dedicated to promoting partnerships of employers, unions and educators to 

provide high quality education and training for MA union members. 

RSC: Regional Support Center (SABES) 

SABES: The System for Adult Basic Education Support is a comprehensive training and 

technical assistance initiative for educators and programs. SABES assists Adult Basic 

Education practitioners further develop the skills, talents and knowledge needed to provide 

exemplary educational services to adult learners. 

SCANS: Secretary of Labor’s Commission on Achieving the Necessary Skills 

SDA: Service Delivery Areas-see LWIB 

SEA: State Educational Agency 

SLRC: State Literacy Resource Center 



SMARTT: The System for Managing Accountability and Results through Technology ABE 

program management and reporting database system enables programs to plan for, manage 

and submit comprehensive error-free statistical data on performance directly to the MDESE via 

the Internet. 

Terms related to the SMARTT Program Planning and data collection include: Class plan, rate 

based classes, service type, non rate based class, class funding detail, flex/foundation services, 

staff plan, staff development, program development, teaching/prep time ratio, contact hourly 

rate for teachers, salary analysis, summary sheet, prototype administrative costs, and program 

plan status. 

Simple Verification: The process by which an employer, an employment agency, or a postsecondary 

educational or training institution may receive faxed verification that an individual 

earned the Massachusetts High School Equivalency Diploma, emblematic of his or her passing 

the GED tests. Used when an official document is not required. 

S/PD: Staff/Program Development 

Spanish GED: Massachusetts High School Equivalency Certificate in Spanish (commonly 

referred to as "the Spanish GED") - This is the credential earned for successfully meeting the 

score requirements on the battery of five tests of General Educational Development in Spanish. 

SPL: Student Performance Level 

STC: School to Career-term used to describe either specific initiatives or a general approach to 

better connect school systems and workforce development systems with a goal of preparing 

students for the world of work. 

STEP: Summer Training and Education Program 

TA: Technical Assistance 

TABE: The Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) assesses basic reading, mathematics, and 

language skills. The assessment yields objective-mastery information for skills usually learned 

in Grades 1-12, and provides percentile and scale scores. Grade equivalent scores are also 

provided for TABE. (see ACLS Assessment Policy). The TABE is one of four ABE standardized 

assessments required by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary 

Education (DESE). The three other assessments tools are the Best Plus, MAPT and the REEP 

Writing Assessment. 

TESOL: Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages is a national organization whose 

mission is to ensure excellence in English language teaching to speakers of other languages. 

USCIS: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (formerly INS) 



USDOE: The mission of the US Department of Education is mission is to strengthen the 

Federal commitment to assuring access to equal educational opportunity for every individual; 

encourage the increased involvement of the public, parents, and students in Federal education 

programs and to promote improvements in the quality and usefulness of education through 

Federally supported research, evaluation, and sharing of information. 

VESL: Vocational English as a Second Language 

VISTA: Volunteers in Service to America 

WE: Workforce Development. Also “WfD”. 

WE: Workplace Education 

WEI: Workplace Education Initiative 

WIA: (The Workforce Investment Act) The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998 represents 

a national consensus to consolidate and coordinate all of the workforce preparation and 

development programs into a unified workforce investment system. 

WIB: (State or SWIB) State Workforce Investment Board is a 65 member Board composed of a 

diverse group of business, government, youth, and community leaders whose mission is to 

advise and help the Governor develop a strategic plan for the commonwealth's workforce 

development system. The Massachusetts Workforce Investment Board serves as the 

Governor's principal advisory board on workforce development. 

WIB: (Continued) The Board fulfills this mandate in three ways: linking workforce development 

to economic development, mobilizing the private sector, and continuously improving the state 

delivery 

system. The Board is comprised of private sector employers, agency heads, legislators, and 

representatives from state and local workforce development entities. For the current 

membership, go to http://www.mass.gov/dlwd/swib.html. 

WIB: Continued: 

As required by WIA, a majority of the board and its chair must be from the private sector. This 

requirement helps ensure that employer and business interests throughout the 

Commonwealth play a key role in advising the Governor about the needs of Massachusetts 

workforce system, and helping make the system "demand driven." 

WTF: The Workforce Training Fund is an employer-funded program that provides grant funds 

to MA employers to upgrade the skills of their current or newly hired employees. 



WE (Workplace Education): Through partnerships among businesses, workers, labor 

organizations, and adult education providers, contextualized instruction is provided to incumbent 

workers. Projects are supported with a combination of primarily state and local matching 

resources for up to three years at which point programs are expected to institutionalize these 

services and continue with local and/or private funds. 

WRAT: Wide-Range Achievement Test 


Appendix-B 

Massachusetts Adult Literacy 

Hotline 

1-800-447-8844 

Information and Referrals 

for Adult Learners and Volunteers 

Individuals seeking a referral service that provides information and referrals to 

adult learners seeking adult basic education classes and volunteer literacy tutors, 

have an online resource for contact information for adult education programs in the 

state. 

The Massachusetts Adult Literacy Hotline Directory includes information for more 

than 300 adult literacy providers across the Commonwealth; is periodically 

updated, easily accessible, and available online at 

http://www.sabes.org/resources/hotline.htm in pdf format. The Directory is designed 

to assist with referrals for adult learners and individuals who wish to volunteer. 

The Directory is operated by the Massachusetts Adult Literacy Hotline, a non-profit, 

statewide referral service that provides referrals to adult education programs that 

offer one-on-one tutoring, small-group or classroom instruction to adult learners. 

Callers receive information about basic reading, math, adult basic education, 

English language training, family literacy, GED preparation or testing sites. 

Individuals who want to improve their English reading and writing skills or interested in 

tutoring, are encouraged to call the Hotline at 1-800-447-8844. 



Appendix-C 

America’s Literacy Directory 

View of Search Screen 


America’s Literacy Directory: (Continued) 

Sample Search Result 


TO CONTACT WESTERN RSC STAFF: 

GEORGE KOHOUT, Regional Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(413) 552-2069 

gkohout@hcc..edu 

ADRIENNE MORRIS, Office Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(413) 552-2576 

amorris@hcc..edu 

CHARLIE HERBERT, Coordinator of Technology / SMARTT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (413) 552-2019 

cherbert@hcc.edu 

DORI MCCORMACK, Associate Coordinator of Assessment / . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (413) 552-2393 

Community Planning /Curriculum Development / . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .dmccormack.@hcc..edu 

Workforce Development 

MICHELE SEDOR, Associate Coordinator of Staff Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (514)552-2442 

msedor@hcc.edu 

___________________________ 

For information on SABES training opportunities, check out our statewide calendar 

http://calendar.sabes.org

SECTION 1: THE SYSTEM FOR ADULT BASIC ... - SABES

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