Intergenerational Literacy Program
The Intergenerational Literacy Program (ILP) offers literacy instruction to parents and their children. The program was developed in 1989 in collaboration with 17 community organizations and is guided by an advisory board representing participating parents, the Chelsea Public Schools, Boston University, and community organizations.
The ILP works toward the following goals:
- Improve the English literacy of parents
- Support the literacy development and academic success of their children
- Conduct research on the effectiveness of an intergenerational approach to literacy
Longitudinal studies of ILP children demonstrated continued high academic achievement. Children who were studied 10 years after their parents participated in ILP showed higher attendance rates, higher promotion rates, and higher high school graduation rates than their non-ILP peers.
Classes for English Language Learners
ESOL Levels 1, 2, and 3: For Massachusetts residents who want to improve their English language and literacy.
ESOL Family Literacy: For parents and caregivers who want to improve their reading and writing while supporting their children in school.
High School Equivalency and Adult Basic Education
High School Equivalency for Youth and Adults: For Massachusetts residents ages 16 and above to prepare them to take the high school equivalency exam (HiSET or GED) in English or Spanish.
Adult Basic Education: These classes, only offered in Spanish, provide adults and youth (ages 16-22) with the literacy skills needed to enter high school equivalency classes.
Classes for Children
Pre-School Children: Preschool children attend classes to help prepare them for school while their parents are in class.
School-Aged Children: School-aged children get homework assistance and participate in other developmentally appropriate activities, including social-emotional learning during the time their parents are in class.
Other Offerings
Distance Learning: For individuals who are interested in taking English classes online.
Supplemental Classes: Optional conversation, writing, and computer classes for learners enrolled in ILP classes.
Intergenerational Literacy Program Contact
Falon Eke, EdM
Chelsea Public Schools
617-466-5154
feke07@bu.edu