Applications Available for Free Beginner English-Language Classes in Somerset County

The 2025 application process has opened First Steps Basic English spring classes, a free English-language learning program for residents of Somerset County, which has served more than 150 individuals since it was launched as a pilot in September of 2023. The application for classes will be available through Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. Classes begin in February 2025 and end in June 2025. Register for classes and for a pre-test.

In 2025, First Steps Basic English classes and small group instruction will continue to be offered around Somerset County in Bernardsville, Bound Brook, Franklin Township, Hillsborough, Manville, North Plainfield, Raritan Borough and Somerville, as well as Zoom.

First Steps Basic English program funds a Literacy Navigator, Stella Nieves of Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County (LVSC), who will work with applicants to place them in different planned classes and small groups based on the applicant’s residence and according to the program’s space availability. As participants progress through classes, the Literacy Navigator will continue to help them and their teachers determine if their progress makes them eligible to participate in other literacy programs, which are available through different vendors.

Space is limited for the First Steps Basic English program, but waiting lists are developed. Applicants also may be referred to other literacy services in the county as appropriate. For more information, email snieves@literacysomerset.org or visit thegrwdb.org/esl.

This 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.

Providers of the program include LVSC, Raritan Valley Community College (RVCC) and the Hunterdon County Educational Services Commission (HCECS), 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 partners of First Steps in Hunterdon and Somerset counties receive separate state and federal funding. Testing and placement are ongoing for these services and are conducted in the late summer/early fall and winter. These include:

RVCC: The college offers free literacy and English language skills classes, including some targeted to help individuals prepare for in-demand career opportunities. To learn more, visit raritanval.edu/literacy, call 908-526-1200, ext. 8516, or email Takecia.Saylor@raritanval.edu.

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

Other literacy service providers in Hunterdon and Somerset 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 helplinehc.org.

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 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 “one-stop” to 565-12 to sign up. Email info@thegrwdb.org or call 908-541-5790.

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