Literacy Source Programs
Small Group ESL Classes
Literacy Source offers students a range of ESL classes at no cost. Classes meet 4-5 hours weekly for an 18-week winter/spring semester, a 12-week summer semester, and a 14-week fall semester. Classes take place at Literacy Source’s Seattle Learning Center, as well as off-site in Sea-Tac and Tukwila, and run at capacity. Additionally, our Citizenship classes provide valuable preparation for students who wish to earn United States Citizenship, at the same time building their English language skills and providing opportunities to learn about community civic engagement. In 2012, Literacy Source helped 32 adults obtain citizenship.
Adult Basic Education
Many students come to Literacy Source to work toward getting a high school diploma. We offer a variety of classes (Beginning and Intermediate level math, reading and writing) to help these students meet their goals, including preparing for the GED exam or enrolling in the External Diploma Program (EDP). The EDP is a unique program that exists in only 10 states nationwide. It offers adults an alternative avenue for earning their high school diploma by assessing the knowledge and skills they've acquired through life experiences.
Community Partnerships
Literacy Source continues to expand off-site programs - and in addition to serving hundreds of students in Seattle, and South King County, teaches a highly successful transitions class at the King County Corrections Facility. In 2013 we are partnering with Seattle University to offer a HopeU class for English language learners at Yesler Terrace, and are working to develop a family literacy class at Bailey Gatzert elementary school.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
Recent Successes
Literacy Source student test scores show that our instructional programs work and as students increase the number of hours they attend classes their learning increases. Literacy Source standardized test scores this past year documented that sixty-six (66) percent of all Literacy Source students who post-tested made a significant federal academic gain.
Literacy Source continues to see a dramatic increase in requests for services. With that increase, volunteers and staff helped more adult learners toward achieving their goals.
- Our External Diploma Program more than tripled the number of graduates. This program allows adult learners to earn a high school diploma by demonstrating the skills they have learned through life experiences.
- Our students continue to drive toward their goals. Whether a student is graduating from our programs and attending culinary training to better care for her children, or developing math skills to qualify to enter a training program for a local utility company, our learners are challenging themselves to improve.
Challenges and Needs At Literacy Source
The classroom, computer lab and cubicles in the tutoring area buzz with activity, a reminder of the importance that Literacy Source serves the community—learners, volunteers, and supporters of all kinds. We are continually challenged to meet the diverse needs of our learners.
In addition to operating funds that allow us to serve students, we are always interested in more volunteers who can bring their skills to our classrooms.