Adult Literacy

According to the 2010 Census nearly 18% of the citizens of Lackawanna County are educationally disadvantaged. Most of these citizens are functionally illiterate and are unable to use printed and written information to function in society, to achieve their goals, and to develop their knowledge and potential. As an affiliate of ProLiteracy America, SCOLA uses the Laubach Way to Reading series as its core curriculum to teach adult learners, primarily on a one-to-one basis, to develop reading and writing skills. Literacy students are assigned to a tutor as soon as one becomes available. Students who want to focus on GED preparation are assigned to tutors who can help them prepare in specific test areas. All instruction is goal-oriented. Additionally, staff  help students work on life skills, problem solving, and, most importantly, developing greater self-esteem.

SCOLA Learning Center has its own facility that includes a 17-seat computer lab that is open to all students during daytime and evening hours. More than 60 programs are available including the most basic levels covering a variety of instructional needs: reading, comprehension, life skills, typing, math, vocabulary, spelling, grammar, and for ESL students, pronunciation, civics, and citizenship. Some programs are designed specifically to reach dyslexic and learning disabled students. A computer lab Individual Education Plan (IEP) is designed for all program participants based on the results of their intake assessment. The computer lab IEP emphasizes skills needed to attain goals. Staff are available to provide assistance and guidance to students who want to supplement their classes with computer work. SCOLA’s Resource Library provides instructional materials to meet student needs and goals.

All adults in Lackawanna County who need help can participate in the adult literacy program providing they are at least 16 years of age and no longer participate in a school program. Residents interested in literacy services must schedule an appointment with Luis Canales, Intake & Assessment Specialist, at 346-6203, extension 14. All students must come to the SCOLA Learning Center for an interview and assessment of language skills so instruction can be tailored to students’ needs and goals. Students sign a contract agreeing to attend instruction for at least 50 hours a year.