8-16-2024 4:56pm

Applications Available for Free English-Language Classes in Somerset County

Donnella Tilery Editor

The application is open for the fall classes of First Steps Basic English, a free English-language learning program for residents of Somerset County. The program, funded by the Somerset County Board of Commissioners through funds from the American Rescue Plan, is part of the free adult literacy programs for English-language learners in Hunterdon and Somerset counties.

First Steps Basic English has served more than 150 individuals since being launched as a pilot program in September of 2023. For the fall of 2024, classes and small group instruction will be offered around Somerset County, including in: Bernardsville, Bound Brook, Franklin Township, Hillsborough, Manville, North Plainfield, Raritan Borough, and Somerville, as well as on Zoom.

The program, which will continue in 2025, funds a Literacy Navigator, based with the Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County (LVSC). Stella Nieves, the Literacy Navigator, works with applicants to try to place them in the different planned classes and small groups based on the applicant’s residence and program space availability.

The First Steps Basic English application will be open through Friday, August. 30. Click here to fill out the application form. Space is very limited, and waiting lists will be developed. Applicants also may be referred to other literacy services in the county as appropriate. For more information, email snieves@literacysomerset.org or visit www.thegrwdb.org/esl.

Providers of the program include LVSC, Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) and the Hunterdon County Educational Services Commission (HCESC), working with the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB). Libraries throughout the county also support the initiative by providing space for the classes and small-group instruction. These partners are part of the GRWDB’s Literacy Committee, which seeks to share information about and expand the effectiveness of the free literacy programs in both Hunterdon and Somerset Counties.

Other existing literacy programs offered by First Steps partners in the two counties receive separate state and federal funding. Testing and placement are ongoing for these services this fall. These include:

RVCC: The college offers free literacy and English language skills classes, including some targeted to help individuals prepare for in-demand careers. Visit www.raritanval.edu/literacy, call 908-526-1200, ext. 8686, or email Bonnie.Scharf@raritanval.edu

HCESC: The agency offers a variety of free English literacy classes, including English Language Acquisition and high school equivalency, in locations around Somerset and Hunterdon Counties. Visit www.hunterdonesc.org and click on the Adult Programs/English Classes or High School Equivalency links. Email adultliteracy@hunterdonesc.org, or zcastroabrica@hunterdonesc.org (Spanish).

Other literacy service providers in the two counties:

LVSC: For more information about other services, including one-on-one tutoring, volunteering or becoming a tutor, call 908-725-5430, or visit LiteracySomerset.org.

Hunterdon Helpline, ESL: Volunteers at Hunterdon Helpline provide free literacy services through custom, one-on-one, barrier-free individual instruction, for beginner to advanced English language levels. To obtain an application, email literacy@helplinehc.com, call 908-782-4357, or visit www.helplinehc.org.

Zarephath Christian Church, Franklin, ESL: The church offers English-language classes, group conversations and accent reduction. Email zmayes@zarephath.org or call 732-560-4001.

About the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board
The GRWDB oversees federally and state-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. More information about these programs can be found on https://www.thegrwdb.org , including stories on initiatives, a Resource tab for job seekers, and an updated calendar of events. Weekly text alerts highlight career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Text “onestop” to 565-12 to sign up. Email info@thegrwdb.org or call 908-541-5790.