Common Questions

Our learners are adult English language learners who want to improve their lives and the lives of their families. Some are immigrants learning English and about American culture. Some are preparing to become U.S citizens. Some already speak English but want to improve their language skills.

We offer free classes and continued education support for adult learners. Our focus is on English learning for non-native English speakers, but we also provide GED/HiSEt help, and citizenship and TOEFL/IELTS classes.

You can stop by our office located on the second floor of the library, fill out our online student form or call us at 617-924-8797. Once registered, students will be asked to come in to talk about learning opportunities.  

Over 450 students study with Project Literacy. Half are in classes taught by professional teachers and the other half work one-on-one or are in small groups facilitated by our tutors. We have over 150 volunteers.

Ways to help include:

• Become a tutor or recruit family/friends to volunteer as a tutor. Our tutors report that the work is hugely rewarding and fun.
• Help Project Literacy plan special events for learners and tutors.
• Donate

Complete a volunteer application, give us a call at 617-924-8797, or contact our tutor coordinator, Jacky Van Leeuwen. Tutor training generally takes place twice a year and consists of 3 two-hour sessions. 

You need to speak, read, and write English, be a good listener, and be able to spare 1.5 to 2 hours a week. That's it!

The city of Watertown contributes approximately 80% of the budget and the Friends of Project Literacy raise 20% of the budget through grants, corporations, and individual donations.