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High Medical Needs ESOL

The High Medical Needs ESOL Program, funded by the Mayor's Office of Education, provides English classes to caregivers and persons with high medical needs. High medical needs are defined as any conditions that make accessing normal ESOL classes difficult or impossible. These include both physical and mental health.

This program is community-centered and is appropriate for anyone who may benefit from a gentle learning environment.  

 

Guiding Principles:

  • Equity and Access – We do what we can to serve all students in the High Medical Needs community of Philadelphia, including (but not limited to):
    • Transportation to and from classes: door-to-door bus service, wheelchair-accessible Lyfts, and SEPTA passes
    • Online coursework for students unable to attend in-person classes
    • Curriculum and materials accommodations when needed  
    • External referrals to any other services we can help provide
  • Community – A warm environment and a sense of friendship among students and instructors. Snacks are provided during in-person classes. 

 

Referrals are accepted both internally from NSC programs and externally from community partners. Classes are offered at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels with classes meeting in-person and online each week. New students are enrolled on a rolling basis as capacity allows, and sessions are held in the winter, spring, summer, and fall. 

 

Beginner Level:

  • Tuesdays: In-person from 12:00pm – 2:00pm
    • Location: Northeast Hub at 6434 Castor Avenue
    • Transportation provided
  • Thursdays: Online from 1:00pm – 2:30pm  

 

Intermediate Level:

  • Tuesdays: In-person from 10:00am – 12:00pm
    • Location: Northeast Hub at 6434 Castor Avenue
    • Transportation provided
  • Thursdays: Online from 10:00am – 11:30am
    • Mixed level (intermediate and advanced) conversation class 

 

Advanced Level: Online only 

  • Wednesdays: Online from 1:00pm – 3:00pm
  • Thursdays: Online from 10:00am – 11:30am
    • Mixed level (intermediate and advanced) conversation class 

 

To send referrals or request additional information, please contact the High Medical Needs ESOL Coordinator Shaina Kapeluck at skapeluck@nscphila.org