Adult Classes
Today’s workplace demands education and skills, yet more than 15,000 women in Paterson have no high school diploma, and nearly one-third do not speak English fluently.
Oasis provides women with free, quality educational opportunities that help them gain the skills they need to enter and thrive in today’s workforce.
We provide free childcare for infants and toddlers while their mothers are in class, so motherhood doesn’t prevent a woman from moving forward.
High School Equivalency Test Preparation (GED) Courses
We offer three instructional levels preparing students for the five subject exams needed to earn the high school equivalency diploma. We help students register for the exams when they are ready, and we pay exam fees.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Courses
We offer four instructional levels, moving students from rudimentary expression towards fluency. We provide a conversational program, the “English Café,” where students can practice speaking with native English-speaking volunteers.
Computer Training Courses
We offer multiple levels of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint courses, all focused on workplace skills. Our computer instructor maintains an open lab in the afternoon, where students can use the computers and get assistance with their job search.
Citizenship Course
This course helps women complete the N-400 application and prepare for the citizenship test administered by the Department of Homeland Security. An applicant must be at least 18 years old and a lawfully admitted permanent US resident to be eligible.
Job Counseling
The Oasis Career Consultant responds to women seeking to enter the workforce with counseling and assistance in resume writing, job-seeking, interviewing, and essential employment communication skills.
Child Development Associate Training
In collaboration with Passaic County Community College, Oasis offers women a free year-long course culminating in the Child Development Associate Certificate, which allows students to work in a certified childcare center.
Saturday Programs
Oasis offers an array of programs for adult learners on Saturdays, including High School Equivalency Test Preparation, English as a Second Language, sewing, yoga, and more.
Childcare Center
We provide a safe, nurturing environment for the children of mothers who are attending class at Oasis. Staff and volunteers care for children in two separate rooms, one for infants and the other for toddlers.
2022 Adult Education Achievements:
- 384 students actively participated in Oasis classes (many enrolled in more than one class).
- 21 students earned their GED, and an additional 12 students passed some of the required GED exams.
- 34 women participated in the Citizenship course, and 17 passed the Naturalization exam and became US citizens.
- 375 students attended the Oasis Saturday Program, learning ESL, preparing for their GED test, and taking classes such as yoga, sewing, and crocheting.
The Need is Urgent!
Give now to help women achieve economic wellbeing for themselves and their families.