Who is enrolled in the Adult Literacy Project?
Students are English-speaking adults who read below a fifth grade level.
Is there a charge for the program?
Reading lessons are free. Our tutors are volunteers and the library provides materials.
Can ESOL (English as a Second Language) students enroll in the program?
ESOL students must display sufficient conversational English skills to understand instruction. Students who have completed ESOL Level 4 at an Adult Education site display the necessary skills to be successful in our program.
What if an ESOL student reads above the fifth grade level?
Individuals are referred to their local Adult Education site which offers higher-level grammar and composition instruction. Also, Palm Beach State College’s Language Connections Institute offers a variety of courses developed to meet the needs of high school and university graduates who need to strengthen pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, and writing skills.
How does a student get a tutor?
The student calls the Literacy Office for a telephone interview and schedules an appointment to meet with a volunteer for placement and orientation.
How does a volunteer become a tutor?
A prospective tutor calls the Volunteer Desk at 649-5495 (West Palm Beach), 996-3453 (Glades) or 1-888-780-5151 (toll free). We will be glad to provide additional information about our program and upcoming workshops.
Do you need experience to become a reading tutor?
Volunteers do not need teaching experience to be tutor. No prior experience is necessary.
What is required of a volunteer?
Volunteers must complete a twelve-hour pre-service workshop and make a nine-month commitment. Volunteers are encouraged strongly to participate in ongoing training opportunities.
How often must a tutor meet a student?
The tutor should meet a student twice a week for a total of three hours.
Where do tutor/student teams meet?
Lessons take place in most Palm Beach County Library locations. Adult Literacy Project tutors may reserve study rooms, where available, at the information desk. Many cooperative libraries also provide space for tutor/student teams.
What program materials are used to teach an adult to read?
All students begin with the phonics-based “On Our Way” program. This multisensory system lays the foundation which will teach students how to become independent readers. As the student advances, other materials focusing on grammar, writing, and critical thinking skills are introduced.
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