English As Second Language

With the increase in immigrant populations in Lackawanna County, the percentage of residents that speaks a language other than English has increased to 6.8%. In 2009-2010 SCOLA served students from 39 countries who wished to increase their English proficiency in order to improve their employment situation and more fully participate in community life. English As Second Language (ESL) students are served by one-on-one or small group instruction or through participation in open entry classes. They are also encouraged to supplement this instruction with independent work in the computer lab.

Residents interested in ESL services must schedule an appointment with Luis Canales, Intake & Assessment Specialist, at 346-6203, extension 14. Although Luis speaks Spanish, students speaking other languages should arrange to have an interpreter available for the first meeting. 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. ESL students receive a photo ID after completing 25 hours of instruction.