Adult Education & Training

Through foundational academic and professional programs like English as a Second Language (ESL), civics education, professional training and workforce development, and more, we provide the tools adults need for long-term success.

Foundational Education

In our free English as a Second Language (ESL) and Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes, we help our students build the skills they need to thrive in the classroom, in the workplace, and in their community. 

In our ESL classes, students learn in a supportive classroom environment where they can gain confidence in their ability to speak, read, and write in English.  

Then, our ABE classes build on the foundation laid in our ESL program. This course focuses on the reading, writing, and math skills needed to prepare students for a GED program, continued education, or a fulfilling career. 

Learn more and enroll now

Current Academic Catalog

Erie Neighborhood House is approved to operate by the Private Business and Vocational Schools Division of the Illinois Board of Higher Education. Erie Neighborhood House is not accredited by a US Department of Education recognized accrediting body.    

Upon completing our program, you may then be able to transfer credit hours to one of our partner advanced training institutions (acceptability of transfer credit is up to the receiving institution; admission/enrollment is also at the discretion of the institution, according to their eligibility/suitability criteria). 

FY25 Catalog

Erie House Educational Programs

Empowering our community through accessible education

ESL (English as a Second Language)

Erie House ESL provides various levels of English language classes in Little Village for adults during morning and evening hours. Objectives are for students to improve their English language skills and feel more confident in their ability to use English at work, home and in their community.

Students should attend a minimum of 40 hours, take a pre and post-test, and gain an NRS level.

ABE (Adult Basic Education)

Erie House ABE for ELLs provides reading, writing, math, science and career development to prepare students to meet their work and educational goals. Objectives are for students to improve their English skills and transition into workforce, English language learning programs or post-secondary education.

Healthcare Bridge Class

The main objective of the Healthcare Bridge is to increase participants' reading comprehension, writing, and mathematics skills through contextualized instruction. Participants will be introduced to various aspects of the health care field and will gain valuable industry knowledge.

The Healthcare Bridge also aims to prepare participants to take the entrance exam and/or placement assessments required by different health care training programs for Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Patient Care Technician (PCT), Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), or other pathways in the health services field.

Professional Training and Workforce Development

Healthcare

Our healthcare pre-certification course provides instruction through a healthcare lens and prepares graduates to enroll in a professional program. Most of our students pursue a career as a medical assistant, a high-demand, rewarding job in the healthcare field. 

Biology 120: Medical Terminology

The main objective of the Biology 120: Medical Terminology course is to introduce and increase basic medical vocabulary to individuals interested in or are currently in the allied health field and others with minimal background in anatomy and physiology. This course includes the study of the human body systems.
Learn more and enroll now

Civics Education and Citizenship Support

We offer a free 12-week course in both English and Spanish to help individuals prepare for and succeed in their naturalization exams and interviews, including topics in US history and civics, and reading and writing. 

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Legal Services for Citizenship & Immigration

Our in-Erie House team of attorneys and legal representatives help their clients navigate the US citizenship and immigration system. 

For scheduling and appointments, please contact our team at (773) 231-7884 or email legalservices@eriehouse.org..

Learn more about legal services

Careeer Support

The Erie House team also provides resume writing workshops, one-on-one customized job coaching and counseling, job placement services, and referrals to support individuals on their paths to great careers.

Learn more & get support

For all student complaints,
please visit: complaints.ibhe.org

FY24 Institutional Disclosure Report

Illinois Board of Higher Education 

1 North Old State Capitol Plaza,

Suite 333 

Springfield, IL 62701 

(217) 782-2551 

www.ibhe.org

Our Impact

Last year, 89% of our ESL students advanced on the CASAS literacy exam, moving them closer to eligibility to enroll in college courses.

85% of our students advance an entire level on the BEST literacy assessment test.

Pathways to Success students gained an average of 3 whole points on the TABE math test.

Read our annual reports

Volunteer with us

Check out our list of volunteer positions with our programs — including virtual opportunities to get involved like tutoring English learners and helping our students prepare for their citizenship interviews.

Learn more about volunteering

Support our work

You can help us continue and expand our work providing foundational academic and professional support to reach more of our community.

Donate now