Adult Learners

LEARNER ENROLLMENT IS CURRENTLY FULL

If you are an adult who is interested in joining our Literacy program, applications will open in January 2026 on a first-come first-serve basis. Please check back at that time.

UPCOMING NEW LEARNER ORIENTATION DATES:

  • February 2026
  • April 2026
  • August 2026
  • October 2026

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Becoming an Adult Learner

Project Adult Literacy offers free one-on-one tutoring and small group classes for those who are eligible.

Every applicant must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age*
  • Possess basic English conversational skills
  • Demonstrate a program-related goal
  • Commit to the program for at least one year
  • Have a valid email address and proficient knowledge of computer use
  • Be an Orange County resident for at least two years*
  • Live or work in Newport Beach or surrounding cities*
    • *Documentation verification is required

Step 1: Contact Us

All learners interested in joining our program must fill out a questionnaire to determine their eligibility.

Step 2: Attend Orientation & Take English Assessment

If a learner is eligible, we will invite them to our next New Learner Orientation. Learners MUST attend Orientation to participate in our program. During the Orientation, learners will complete a formal application and take an in-person assessment to evaluate their English skills. 

Step 3: Meet with Coordinator

After Orientation, learners will schedule a meeting with the Literacy Coordinator to go over their goals to determine if our program is the best fit for the learner, including if the learner is eligible for classes, one-on-one tutoring or both. 

Step 4: Participate

Once a learner has been officially enrolled in our program, they can begin attending classes. Registration is required prior to attending classes.

If a learner is eligible for a tutor, they must wait to be matched with a tutor. This process can take 2-6 months depending upon availability.

We look forward to helping you begin your learning journey! 

Best, 
Project Adult Literacy

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PAL Classes for Learners

We offer many classes to help support our learners and improve their skills.  Classes and activities are open to all learners who are currently enrolled in our Project Adult Literacy Program.  Please call (949) 717-3874 or email us at literacy@newportbeachca.gov for more information about classes.

Class size is extremely limited, and registration is required. *Classes are subject to change. 

Afternoon Book Club with David (for Intermediate Learners)- A great way for learners to read and discuss various topics related to the current book. In this class, you will improve your vocabulary, reading comprehension and English-speaking skills while reading and discussing short novels. Discover the excitement of completing and understanding an entire book in the course of a few weeks!

American Culture with Lily – Want to learn more about American ways? This class offers you the opportunity to learn about American culture and all the richness that comes with it. Learners will improve their reading, writing and conversational skills as they learn about American music, movies, delicious cuisine, National Parks and more.

American Sitcoms with Marcia - An intriguing class that focuses on popular TV sitcoms and discusses everyday situations and events. Each learner will observe, study and interpret everyday verbal and facial expressions. 

Idioms in Everyday Conversations with Adele - Have you ever heard a phrase, but didn’t understand what it meant? (For example: I’m feeling a bit under the weather.) In this class, you will learn all about common expressions and sayings used in the English language known as IDIOMS. Learners will study various idioms and their meanings, while learning how to use them in every day conversations. 

Journal Writing with Justin - Journaling is a powerful tool for personal growth and self-understanding. In this class, you'll discover how writing can be a private, healing, and expressive experience. Writing is a technology for organizing and processing your thoughts and emotions. Practicing writing will help you connect with your thoughts and feelings in a meaningful way. Whether you are new to journaling or looking for new ways to deepen your practice, this class is designed to help you write and express yourself authentically. 

Job Success with Patty - Gain the confidence you need for your job search! In this class you will focus on learning and understanding common words and phrases in job postings and applications, so you can apply for any job with confidence. You will get hands-on practice writing cover letters and professional emails, reviewing sample job applications, and participating in group interview exercises to help you feel more comfortable and prepared. This class is designed for those who want to build the English skills needed to find and get a job.

Mastering Conversation & Communication with Helene - Want to improve your English conversation and communication skills? This is the class for you! You will discuss different topics related to communication with other learners in the group. You will also learn to share ideas, expand your vocabulary, improve your pronunciation and ultimately have fun speaking English with others. 

Mastering the iPhone with Jake - Do you have an iPhone but feel like you only know the basics? In this class, you will go beyond the basics to uncover the hidden secrets and powerful features of your iPhone. Each week you will learn about the essential apps, including the App Library, Camera, Photos, Notes, Mail, Messages, Maps, Widgets, Calendar, editing text and more. This class is perfect for anyone looking to increase their confidence and independence with their iPhone. 

Mystery Book Club with Marcia (for Beginner Learners) - Is someone missing? Were they murdered? Join us for a suspenseful Mystery Book Club where learners will read intriguing short chapter books, learning new vocabulary and improving pronunciation. In this class, you will improve your reading and English-speaking skills while discussing characters, motives and clues, while trying to solve the crime before the detective does.

News for You with Marcia – A fun class that focuses on staying informed and up-to-date with news around the world by reading the newspaper, discussing current events, sharing your opinions and learning new vocabulary. This class will focus on improving learners’ English skills using "News for You" weekly newspaper.

Rom-Com Book Club with Quintin (for Intermediate/Advanced Learners) - Do you enjoy a good love story with a happy ending? Join us for a fun and engaging Rom-Com Book Club where learners will explore reading romantic comedies and discuss American language and culture. In this class, you will improve your reading and English-speaking skills while discussing characters, plot lines and sharing your thoughts and feelings about what you read. Discover new authors, connect with other learners and fall in love with reading. 

Writing Your Stories with Helene - This is more than just a writing class, it is an opportunity to share the experiences of your life with others. In this class you will improve your writing skills, vocabulary and the ability to express yourself in English. Great for anyone wanting to advance their writing skills.