Literacy, both language and technology, is a critical need in the Belmont Cragin community. A survey from Wright College noted that in the Belmont Cragin community, 43.2% speak English less than very well, and over one-third have less than a high school diploma. And, according to our surveys, approximately 80% of our adult students had never used a computer before having access to our classes. Onward House is proud to offer adult education programs that meet the ongoing needs of the community.
Onward House offers:
- ESL (English as a Second Language) Classes
- GED Classes (currently suspended)
- Citizenship Classes & Immigration Workshops
- ESL Study Group
ESL Class
In collaboration with Wilbur Wright Community College and Northwest Community Church, Onward House offers computerized, Levels 3 and 4 English as a Second Language (ESL) evening classes for adults. Wright College provides the instruction, while Onward House and Northwest Community Church recruit and enroll participants.
After being assessed by Wright College, participants are placed in one of four levels: Levels 1 and 2 are taught at Northwest Community Church, and Levels 3 and 4 are hosted by Onward House.
Once students complete their ESL classes, they can continue their studies, pursue a degree, retrain for a new profession, or generally navigate through their daily lives with greater ease. Participants will have the ability to speak with their doctors, to sales clerks, and with their children’s teachers with greater confidence.
ESL Study Group
Onward House offers participants the opportunity to practice their English skills when a volunteer is available to lead a study group.
GED Class (currently suspended)
Passing the GED (General Educational Development) test gives those who do not complete high school, or who do not meet therequirements for a high school diploma, the opportunity to earn their high school equivalency credential. This class has been offered in collaboration with Wilbur Wright Community College.
Job Readiness Training
Onward House provides one-on-one assistance to help job seekers write résumés and cover letters, learn online job search techniques, and prepare for an interview.
Citizenship Classes & Immigration Workshops
Onward House meets the need of immigrants with Latino-led, family-based immigration and citizenship services. Families served by Onward House have identified that immigration legal services are difficult for them to access, being either too costly or too far away. Furthermore, the high incidence of fraud and misinformation, many times resulting in additional legal problems, makes individualized service delivery a great benefit for our families.
Onward House hosts informational workshops to offer legal guidance related to immigration. Workshops were designed for immigrant families to receive more information on topics such as immigration processes, how and where to find immigration forms, and how to track applications.
To register for our Adult Education classes, or for more information on other services for adults, please contact Juan Martin at 773-622-3215, or fill out the form below: