Literacy NJ AmeriCorps: Adult Literacy Educator

Since 1979, Literacy New Jersey has been committed to strengthening New Jersey’s workforce, families and communities by ensuring that free, high quality literacy instruction is available to low literate adults in every New Jersey community. Through our network of trained volunteer tutors, we provide free, personalized instruction in reading, writing, math, English language and digital skills. Tutors work with adults in small groups to help them achieve their personal, professional, and educational goals. Our students are often at the lowest levels of literacy. They may be learning English as a Second Language, improving their basic reading and writing skills, developing digital and job readiness skills, preparing for High School Equivalency diplomas, or becoming U.S. citizens. AmeriCorps members will expand our capacity to provide adult literacy programs by tutoring adults and by providing additional support to our adult learners. No prior educational experience is required—just a commitment to community service and a passion for helping others achieve their goals. Training will be provided.

As an AmeriCorps member, you will play a crucial role in our literacy programs, dedicating your time and skills to empower adult learners. AmeriCorps members who will provide essential support to our adult literacy programs by tutoring adults in English as a Second Language, Basic Literacy, GED preparation, and/or citizenship education. Members will teach up to four classes a week. Resources materials will be provided as well as weekly prep time to prepare lessons. Additional support for adult learners may include: helping with student intake and assessment, meeting with volunteers and students to ensure their needs are met, assisting with volunteer and student recognition events. Members will have the opportunity to help with the planning and execution of statewide projects and initiatives including Literacy NJ’s annual conference.

Tutor Adult Learners

• Teach up to four classes a week, in English as a Second Language, Basic Literacy, GED, or citizenship instruction. All resource materials provided.
• Use provided resource materials and allotted prep time to plan lessons.

Other Opportunities Supporting County Program

• Coordinate activities related to initial recruitment, orientation and intake of

prospective tutors and students. Explain the mission, services, policies and procedures.

• Coordinate and/or conduct assessment/reassessment of students.
• Conduct regular check-ins with volunteers and students to ensure their needs are met and assist in coordinating volunteer and student recognition.
• Canvase/table at community events to gather a more robust mailing list.
• Write op-eds and other community organizing PR.

Statewide Engagement and Program Development

• Statewide Engagement: In addition to serving at their local site, all AmeriCorps members will participate in at least one statewide committee or project during their service term. Examples include curriculum development workgroups, conference planning committee, and student leadership initiatives. This commitment allows members to collaborate with peers across the state, share expertise, and contribute to initiatives that strengthen Literacy NJ’s impact statewide.
• Program Development: Contribute to the development of programming that responds to local and statewide needs. Examples from the past service year include:
• Creating student resource guides and providing one-on-one student advising to support academic and career goals.
• Developing and piloting pre-High School Equivalency curriculum to strengthen foundational skills.
• Creating and facilitating Spanish-language GED preparation resources and instruction.
• Designing and leading special-interest learning experiences, such as book clubs, that run alongside core ESL classes.

AmeriCorps is the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. Members commit to a set number of service hours and receive a stipend, training, and an education award while gaining experience and making a lasting impact in their community.