Class in session at the Jeanne Elmezzi Adult Learning Center
Photo: Courtesy of Queens Library Foundation

Queens Library Foundation’s Jeanne Elmezzi Learning Center

The Jeanne Elmezzi Adult Learning Center, located in Long Island City, provides lifelong learning opportunities to address the needs of the diverse and changing populations of Queens through free, quality educational programs and services that include Adult Basic Education (ABE), English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), and preparation for individuals seeking a High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma. The Center also has a full-time case manager to assist with domestic-violence referrals, employment, housing application assistance, childcare, immigration, and general information services.

Results

In Fiscal Year 2013 (July 1, 2012 – June 30, 2013), the program served 898 individuals with ESOL and 723 with ABE.

Also in Fiscal Year 2013: 41 individuals obtained jobs; 147 attended a job skills workshop; 367 improved their computer skills; 170 were referred to training; 87 entered training; 9 entered higher education; 4 passed their GEDs; and 26 obtained citizenship.

So far in Fiscal Year 2014, 10 individuals have passed their GEDs.

Profile

Angela Waldron, a mother of three who lives in Long Island City, came to the Pre-High School Equivalency class at the Jeanne Elmezzi Adult Learning Center in April 2013 after having failed a portion of the exam. In less than a year, she completed her coursework and passed her GEDs. She is now a student at the College of New Rochelle where she has completed her first semester and is enrolled in both the summer and fall sessions. Her ambition is to become a church leader.