Education & Job Readiness

UNC offers several community education programs to help participants improve their economic independence and our community’s economic vitality. 

Adult Education and English as a Second Language (ESL) Education
UNC’s SCOLA programming is for adult learners at varying literacy and English proficiency levels. Programs provide foundational language skills paired with long-term goal setting through career exploration, education and training, and entering high-demand careers. All services are provided free of charge with in-person and virtual options available. These services consist of group classes, one-on-one tutoring, and technology access for independent self-study. 

Citizenship Education classes and one-on-one tutoring is available for those preparing for naturalization. Course material familiarizes students with the N-400, provides an overview of the interview process, and context needed to pass the U.S. citizenship test. 

Language Partnership engages English and Spanish speakers with the goal of developing confidence in utilizing the desired language in the community and the workplace.

Family Literacy assists English language learners with children 3rd grade and younger through ESL instruction, parenting education, interactive literacy activities, and early childhood education. 

Family Education and School-Aged Tutoring partners English language learning families with a tutor to focus on the academic needs of the children while also enhancing English language skills for all members of the family and modeling teaching strategies for caregivers to utilize at home. Supplemental activities include adult and parenting workshops and family engagement activities. 

For more information on these services or to get started, contact UNC’s Assistant Director of Community Education, Audrey Golosky, by phone at 570-346-6203 ext. 105 or (272) 228-1373 or by email at agolosky@uncnepa.org. Audrey habla español.

Workforce and Professional Development

UNC has a variety of initiatives that focus on participant’s strengths and experiences to create individualized plans for continued education and gainful employment in high-demand fields such as healthcare and the trades. Participants work with coaches and case managers who support them in goal progression and achievement while overcoming barriers to education and employment goals, and offer the tools, knowledge and support needed for success. 

Readiness in Skilled Employment or RISE is an intensive program requiring nearly a yearlong commitment. During this time, participants will take technical classes paired with professional development sessions, and individualized coaching with the overall goal of obtaining industry credentials in high-demand occupations. For more information or to apply, www.risenepa.org/generaleligibility/.

Parent Pathways is a multi-sector collaborative that includes partners from higher education, social and community services, and youth development. UNC serves as the advisor in Lackawanna County assisting parent students with barrier removal so they can advance their education. For more information or to get started visit https://parentpathwaysofnepa.org/.

Careers in Care assists individuals obtaining healthcare credentials with overcoming barriers to education and employment.

For more information on these services or to get started, contact UNC’s Director of Community Education, Terilynn Brechtel, by phone at 570-346-6203 ext. 103 or (272) 228-1365 or by email at tbrechtel@uncnepa.org.

Volunteers Needed
Our programming wouldn’t be the same without our volunteers! We depend crucially on volunteers to provide tutoring for individuals, families, and within a classroom environment.  For more information, contact UNC’s Assistant Director of Community Education, Audrey Golosky, by phone at 570-346-6203 ext. 105 or (272) 228-1373 or by email at agolosky@uncnepa.org.