About Classes
LVGH prides itself on its strong sense of community. Our small classes are perfect for adults who might not be comfortable in a larger, institutional setting, or who prefer more individualized attention. Small-group instruction allows tutors to accommodate the interests and needs of their students. That means you might find classes going through today’s newspaper headlines, practicing filling out applications, or in the computer lab looking for directions to the grocery store. Students benefit from learning not only from their tutors, but from each other.
Want to sign up for classes? Please click here to fill out an application and we will be in contact with you.
Class Structure
Our classes are small. Generally four to six students are placed in each according to their reading and/or language skills, as determined by assessments given upon intake. Taught by trained volunteer tutors, all groups follow a nationally-recognized curriculum, which integrates language and life skills lessons. Students and teachers each receive copies of the textbook.
Class Schedule
Classes are offered during three terms: fall, winter, and spring. The regular school year ends in June, with a summer session in July (see calendar). Registration is ongoing through each term (see class schedule) at both of our locations in Hartford and East Hartford.
Course Offerings
Literacy Volunteers provides small-group instruction in:
- Basic Literacy (Reading and Writing for native English speakers)
- English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
- Digital Literacy
- Math Literacy
- Theresa Fiondella Pre-GED
- GED (In collaboration with Hartford Adult Education)
- Citizenship
- Job Readiness
- Grammar & Writing
- Conversation
We can also help connect students to the National External Diploma Program (NEDP), an alternative to high school completion for students who may not be a good fit for the GED test. Ask a staff member for more information.
Digital Literacy
Our Educational Technology program provides students the opportunity to work independently in the computer lab with help from volunteers. Educational software is available to supplement classroom instruction. Individualized tutoring is also available on topics of interest to students including basic internet navigation, setting up an email address, obtaining a driver’s license, job searches, word processing, and so much more (see Computer Lab hours).
Career Pathways
For decades, LVGH has prepared low literate students with the language, digital and job readiness skills they need to succeed in the job market. Career Pathways takes this, and our students, to the next step, providing the education and support that low literate adults need to make significant progress toward sustained, livable wage employment.
While enrolled in LVGH classes, students work with the Career Counselor, developing an individualized career plan, identifying career and academic goals, specific steps and obstacles toward that goal, and possible solutions. Through LVGH’s network of “next step” providers, students are linked with resources to support their progress, including transportation, child care, immigration and legal services, college and job training programs, internship and employment opportunities. All students also receive support in resume development, job searches and applications, interviewing, business email, attire and etiquette.
Through LVGH's network of engaged employers, staff arranges interviews for appropriate candidates. These employers recognize Career Pathways as a feeder for hard-to-fill positions that are a good match for our students' skills, e.g. positions that require bilingual skills. We have also specifically partnered with industries in which many of our students already have experience, e.g. IT, food service, janitorial, transportation, health care. Many employer partners have employees who volunteer as tutors with us.
In partnership with Sodexo, FoodShare and New Covenant United Methodist Church, Career Pathways also provides a food services job training program, including ServSafe certification. Students gain hands-on experience by preparing and serving semi-weekly community dinners held at our East Hartford Center, under the supervision of a professional Sodexo chef. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible for employment with Sodexo.
