English as a Second Language
The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program serves increasingly diverse members of the York community, with an average of 60 countries represented in the ESL Program each year. The program offers classroom instruction with Pre-Lit, Beginner, Low-Intermediate, Intermediate, and Advanced levels of instruction. The focus of the ESL program is to improve conversation skills with focus on speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. English Language Civics Classes provide insight into life in the U.S.A. and help students prepare for the Naturalization Interview and Test. ESL is open to all York County residents (18 years and older) who would like to learn or improve their English literacy skills. Students may be placed in an appropriate level class, or they may be matched with a trained tutor.
The Process
A potential student must first fill out a Student Intake Form and second ESL Goal Sheet.
York County Literacy Council Student Intake Form
New students are then invited to attend an orientation and take an initial test to determine placement in the program. Students are placed in a class or with a tutor when there is an opening in a class or a tutor is available. There is no time limit for a student to participate however students must be engaged in their work, come to classes and/or tutoring on time, and work within the rules of YCLC.
STUDENT LEARNING GOALS MAY BE:
- Improve English language skills such as reading, writing and comprehension
- Being referred to our Adult Reading Program for GED/HISET classes
- Enter post-secondary education or professional training programs
- Obtain employment or prepare for job advancement
- Prepare for the written driver’s license exam or understand printed forms
- Develop basic computer skills
- Improve reading or math skills
- Read to their children and help them with their schoolwork
The Program Offers…
ONE-TO-ONE TUTORING
Students may request a trained tutor for one-to-one tutoring. A student may be place in a small group tutoring session.
THE ESL CLASSROOM: 6 LEVELS
Classroom instruction is offered on six levels: Pre-Lit, Beginner, Low Intermediate, Intermediate, Advanced, Post Advanced. Classes are held both daytime and evening. Students must register for classes.
DIGITAL LEARNING CENTER
YCLC’S Digital Learning Center offers educational software and online educational programs which allow our students to enhance the classroom and tutoring sessions. The Digital Learning Center is open during normal business hours. Students must make an appointment with their coordinator for their first visit to the Digital Learning Center.
CLASSROOM PRESENTATIONS
To complement our foundational programs, YCLC hosts presentations that facilitate health, workplace and financial literacies. Presentations may include Credit Reports and Scores, A Balanced Budget, and Nutrition. Workplace presentations are offered by members of the community who have expertise in areas of employment such as: manufacturing, robotics, health care, construction and service industries. These extra presentations help advance the knowledge and skills necessary to gain employment, access health and wellness information, and achieve self-sufficiency.
ESL Class Schedule (York)
YCLC classes are a hybrid of virtual and in-person class instruction. Students are subject to a mandatory temperature check upon entry to the building and must wear a mask. Schedules are available at Orientations or call for additional information.
AM Pre-Lit 9-11:30 am Tuesday/Thursday (in person)
PM Pre-Lit 6:30-9 pm Tuesday /Thursday (in person)
AM Beginning 9-11:30 am Tuesday/Thursday (in person)
PM Beginning 6:30-9 pm Tuesday/Thursday (in person)
AM Low Intermediate 9-11:30 am Monday/Wednesday (in person)
PM Low Intermediate 6:30-9 pm Tuesday/Thursday (in person)
AM Intermediate 9-11:30 am Monday (Zoom) Wednesday (in person)
PM Intermediate 6:30-9 pm Wednesday (in person) Monday (Zoom)
AM Advanced 9-11 am Monday/Thursday (in person)
PM Advanced 6:30 pm – 9 pm Monday/Wednesday (in person/Zoom)
Post Advanced – Tuesdays/Thursdays 7 pm to 8:30 pm (Zoom only)
You MUST call to register at 717-845-8719.
For additional information call 717-845-8719 or email Janelle Hertzler or Heather Lee.
STUDENT SUCCESS!
Former ESL student and intern,
Susana graduates from HACC
with degree in social services.
