Robin Derosa

Who We Serve The English Empowerment Center serves nearly 1,500 beginning-level English language and literacy adult learners. English Empowerment Center programs provide general English language instruction, targeted literacy skill development, and language for career–specific pathways through classroom, small group and tutorial instruction. Faculty We have experienced and credentialed teachers in our program as well as rigorously trained volunteers in order to keep our classes small and emphasize personal attention. Our instructors are highly skilled in serving this population. Our Programs Include: Beginning-level English Classes: Beginning-level English classes teach the foundation skills adult English language learners (ELLs) need to learn to speak, understand, read, and write English. The curriculum focuses on American culture and life skills important to the workplace, community, and family, which includes an introduction to technology through blended learning. Family Learning Program Classes: The Family Learning Program (FLP) provides English language instruction classes for parents or caregivers, while their children participate in reading and writing activities and receive guidance with their homework. At least twice a month, the children join the adult class for PACT (Parent and Child Together Time) activities. Skills-based Classes: These courses are designed for those who have completed the Beginning-Level English program and need intensive work on particular skill sets. The program design features shorter class sessions and more intensive instruction on topics involving reading, writing, pronunciation, computer literacy, and financial literacy. Destination Workforce®: The program teaches adults basic skills in language and literacy to improve their employability and empower them to participate more fully and confidently in the workplace. This initiative offers language access to career pathways for those seeking a fast track to an entry-level job.