Finding education support as a multilingual learner
If you’re a multilingual Vermonter pursuing education and training, you may be wondering what resources are available to you. Although Vermont is a small state, there are many types of support that you can access along your education journey. Whether you’re looking for interpretation services, classes to improve your English, or community support, there are organizations that are ready to help.
Interpretation and translation services
When starting your education exploration, you may come across some unfamiliar language. Using translation and interpreting services can help you understand all of your options. Contact the organizations below to learn more about how they can help.
AALV is an agency in the Old North End of Burlington Vermont that helps New Americans settle into Vermont with a wide range of resources, from workforce development to free legal assistance. AALV has both interpreter and translation services available.
US Committee for for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI)
Refugees can access many types of support at USCRI Vermont, such as interpretation services and help with education and employment. USCRI is located in Colchester.
English language learning
If you’re looking to improve your English skills, there are several centers around Vermont that teach English for non-native speakers.
Central Vermont Adult Education
Vermonters in Washington, Orange, and Lamoille County can access free classes at Central Vermont Adult Education that will help improve your English reading, writing, and speaking skills. CVAE also has other classes that can help you with job readiness. This center is located in Barre.
Mercy Connections offers free English classes while prioritizing a space that feels safe and welcoming for its students. You can find a wide range of English classes at Mercy Connections, such as Beginner Levels 1 and 2, English Language Pronunciation, Conversation for Intermediate Level Speakers, Pens and Pages, and Topics in Entrepreneurship. Mercy Connections is located in Burlington.
The Tutorial Center
The Tutorial Center provides free English classes for non-native speakers. Through these courses, you can strengthen their conversational, grammar, reading, and writing skills. Both night and day classes are available at their centers in Bennington and Manchester.
Vermont Adult Learning
Vermont Adult Learning has multiple learning resources and programs for adults who are pursuing education. One of those courses, the English Language Learning (ELL) program, can help you improve your English. Another program, called College and Career Readiness, helps you make a Personalized Learning Plan. This plan helps you define your goals, plan for your future, and find resources that can help you get there. All services are free, and there are seven learning centers across Vermont. For more flexibility, you can also access services online.
Community resources for English learners
You can also look to your community for assistance. From mentoring to education enrollment to help with financial aid, Vermont has community organizations that can help you on your education journey.
Youth ages 14 to 24 can access the ONE Youth Center, which offers homework assistance, mentoring, and other important resources. You can find the youth center in the O.N.E. Community Center in Burlington.
Contacting the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) is a great place to start. VSAC is a nonprofit organization that can help you pay and plan for your education. VSAC can help you with education planning, applying for programs, and accessing financial aid.
Multilingual student services at Vermont colleges
Some colleges in Vermont have specific programs that can help multilingual students feel at ease in their new learning environment. These programs can provide financial aid advice, tutoring, general support, and more. If you don’t see your school here, contacting their student support services office is a great next step.
Champlain College
- AHEAD Program: This pre-orientation program is for incoming students that are part of underrepresented populations. Over the course of several days, you will participate in team building exercises, learn about support services, and connect with their classmates, mentors, and professors.
- New American Scholarship: This scholarship is available to refugee and asylum students in Vermont. Full time, part time, in-person, and remote students can all access this full-tuition scholarship.
- Tutoring for English Language Learners (ELL): Students whose first language is not English can access tutoring from a trained educator. Tutoring can take place online or in person, and can be held one-on-one or in small groups.
Community College of Vermont (CCV)
- English for Academic Purposes: Students who are learning English can take this course at CCV. Through this class, you will learn and practice English grammar and vocabulary that will help them succeed in a classroom. You will also learn about the culture and social norms of an English-speaking classroom.
University of Vermont (UVM)
- International Student Services: If you identify as an international student, the International Student Services office at UVM offers several types of support, including immigration advising, orientation, and social and education programs. They can also help you find and connect with other resources you may need.
Vermont State University (VTSU)
- Multilingual Students Services: Multilingual Student Services offers many types of support to students at VTSU. Their services range from academic English reading and writing, to pronunciation, to cultural literacy. You can access these services both remotely and in person. There are also courses designed specifically for multilingual students.
- Pathway Program for English Language Learners Students that need to reach a specific level of English skills to start their degree can join this program at the Castleton campus. Here, you can take in person courses that combine classwork from your degree program and English learning. Multilingual students that are not in the program may also take a Pathway Program course.
As you start your education and training journey, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Whether you’re looking for translation services, admissions advice, or English lessons, Vermont has resources to get you there.
