The Students We Serve

Our goal at the PVLA is to address the educational needs of all members of our community. Our main focus is on English as a second language (ESL), helping individuals earn their GED, and providing individuals with the information they need to obtain their U.S. citizenship.

As you can imagine, the vast majority of people we help are non-native speakers who moved into the area to improve their lives and the lives of their families. Typically, they work full-time jobs and have kids to take care of. Going to classes to improve their English-speaking skills, to obtain a high school diploma, or to get their citizenship is “extra.”

Due to the various scheduling concerns adult learners have to take into consideration, we do our best to offer a variety of classes throughout the day and evening to accommodate our students’ needs.

The Classes We Offer

While adult non-native English speakers may make up the bulk of our students, they aren’t the only ones who come to the PVLA to continue their education. We do our best to help anyone and everyone who walks through our door and has a need. As mentioned, one of our programs is to help people obtain their GED, and there are many different people from all walks of life who take advantage of that program.

We also have individuals who need help with applying for jobs—whether for the first time or to find a better paying option. We work with them on an individual basis to help them fill out applications or create a resume—whatever their particular need might be.

When students can’t come to us, we make it a point to go to them. Through our Outreach ESL classes, we work with area businesses to create opportunities for employees who need or want to improve their English-speaking skills to be as successful at work as possible.

Not So Typical Students

One of the best things about the classes we offer is that they are free. The students pay nothing. There are some requirements they have to adhere to, such as having a set number of hours for ESL and GED classes, but paying for the instruction isn’t one of them.

The learning needs of adult students is much different than that of children. As mentioned, many of our students work full-time jobs. It’s not uncommon for our students to get off working an overnight shift and attend a morning ESL or GED class—only because that works best for their schedule. They may be tired, but they want to learn.

Not only do we do what we can to provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful, but we do our best to keep them awake and motivated to learn. Coffee, pop, bottled water, and snacks are all part of inspiring adult learners and giving them the energy to move forward with their studies.

Paying for Progress

You may be wondering how we can afford to pay for the instructors and keep our students energized if we don’t charge for classes. The bulk of our funding comes from grants and other support. As a United Way Agency, we are allocated money each year to serve students and their needs.

But they aren’t the only place where we get funds.

We put in grant applications to various foundations every year in the hopes of getting enough to keep offering classes to help community members reach their full potential.

Our partnership with the Central Community College Adult Education program also helps provide students with top-notch teachers and access to advanced technology and learning materials. If you haven’t seen the newly renovated PVLA space, you need to come check it out.

We also get assistance from community members who generously donate time, funds, or supplies, as well as fundraisers. In fact, this year we are co-hosting Taste of Columbus; the proceeds of which will help fund our various programs.

There are several ways that you can help as well. If you’re interested in donating money or time, get ahold of the PVLA and let us know how you want to assist.

Success Starts at Home

When most people think of students, the first thing that probably comes to mind is young kids heading off to school. While getting an education at a young age is incredibly beneficial, it’s not the only time that an individual can gain knowledge. When parents have the skills and information they need to improve their lives, they can improve their kids’ lives as well.

The students we serve are more often adult learners who are looking to be successful in life. Once they have the foundation and support they need, they are in a better position to help their kids reach for the stars. Success starts at home, and educated parents pass their knowledge on.