Community Education

Through our Departments of Community Education and Community Revitalization, we work to build vibrant and resilient communities that make the most out of residents’ talents, energy and ideas. We help build individual skills and coordinate collective action to improve our community’s physical appearance, economic vitality, and social connections. We work to improve our community’s appreciation of the benefits of diversity so that all can benefit from increased community engagement. For more information about how you can benefit or contribute, see below.

Adult Literacy, ESL, & Citizenship Education
The Scranton Council of Literacy Advance (SCOLA) has provided free adult literacy and English as a Second Language (ESL) education since 1975. In 2011, SCOLA merged with UNC and moved to 631 Cedar Avenue in South Scranton, where it is open Monday – Thursday from 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The facility offers free ESL classes, one-on-one tutoring, and a computer lab for independent self-study. We teach a Family Literacy program specially designed for ESL adults with children in third grade or younger, a Citizenship class for those preparing to pass the U.S. citizenship test, a Language Partnership class for those looking to learn either English or Spanish, and Job Placement services for recent immigrants looking to enter or advance up a career ladder. We depend crucially on volunteers to provide English tutoring and teach classes. For more information, contact UNC’s Director of Community Education, Terilynn Brechtel at 570-346-6203.

Upward Economic Mobility Program
Through a partnership with Johnson College, UNC offers a workforce development program to provide participants with the skills and support needed be successful in a technical education program that will prepare them for a career in one of the region’s high-demand occupations, including Certified Nursing Assistants, Medical Assistants, machine operators, welders, and plumbers. With grant support from the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation and the NEPA Health Care Foundation’s Careers in Care program, UNC provides skills training in areas like communications, networking, problem solving, and professionalism and provides support to overcome barriers to class attendance and successful completion of the Johnson College training program. These support services may include English language classes, child care, food, transportation, or other assistance to help them complete their education and prepare for a successful career. For more information, call (570) 346-6203.