Looking to learn or improve your English?  We’re here to help!

 

LVBC provides free, confidential, individualized, one-on-one tutoring weekly to help you learn or improve your English, at a time and place that works with your schedule.

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"Who can sign up?"

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All adults who are hoping to learn or improve their English – whether you just arrived in the U.S. or were born here! Students must be over age 16 and cannot be enrolled in school. You must be able to make a regular commitment to attend your tutoring sessions.

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"When do tutoring sessions take place?"

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This is up to you! We know that many of our students are working multiple jobs or balancing childcare. You and your tutor work together to create a mutually convenient schedule.

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"Where do tutoring sessions take place?"

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You can meet at the Berkshire Athenaeum (Pittsfield's public library), another public place in the community, or by video call – whichever is most accessible for you and your tutor.

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"What if I don’t speak much or any English yet?"

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That is what we’re here for! Feel free to email us in another language – we can translate it. Or stop by in person, where we can use interpretation to get your intake information. We will match you with a tutor specifically trained to teach you at your own pace, through our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program. We can work on vocabulary, pronunciation, conversation skills, and basic reading and writing. Instruction is individualized to reflect your needs, abilities, and goals and to be relevant to your life.

 

"What if I already speak some English? Can you help with more specialized skills?"

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Yes! Here are a few of the things we can help with:

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• Improving reading and writing skills

• Workplace vocabulary

• Preparing for the English and civics parts of the U.S. citizenship interview

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We want to help you achieve your goals!

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"Will you really keep my information confidential? I need to make sure I’ll be safe."

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We take confidentiality very seriously. We serve everyone regardless of immigration status – we’ll never ask for that information. We also cannot share any information you give us, or even confirm that you are a student of ours, without your expressed consent. Your safety is our

#1 priority.

 

"I’m ready to begin! Can I start tutoring sessions with you right away?"

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Our programs generally have a waiting list. Please contact us so we can get your information and add you to our list. We will contact you as soon as we have a tutor available who will be a good match for you!

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"I’m an immigrant who is new to the Berkshires. I want to learn English, but I also need help enrolling my children in school, finding immigration legal services, getting a job, accessing medical care without health insurance, and so much more. Who can help me?"

 

The Berkshires have many incredible nonprofit organizations focused on helping newcomers settle here. Visit BasicBerkshires.org to search for the assistance you need! All the organizations listed here strive to be accessible, welcoming, and sensitive to the distinct needs of immigrants.

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LVBC also strives to help as much as we can. If you are new to the area, your tutor can show you how to ride the bus, or help you get a library card or make a doctor’s appointment. Our tutors care about our students as people, not just as English learners! Tell us what you need and what questions you have. If we don’t know the answer, we will find out for you or refer you to someone who does. 

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If you are interested or have questions, email us at info@literacyberkshires.org or call 413-499-9487, or stop by our Berkshire Athenaeum office Monday-Thursday 9am-3pm. We would love to meet you!