We’re here to nurture your mind with our unique array of essential education programs.
Individual Assistance
High School Preparation/ Literacy Tutoring
The small-class format of this program is designed to offer individual assistance for the adult student who has been away from school for some time or has difficulty learning in a large classroom environment. Volunteer teachers – all experienced educators – assist in this activity, which is carried out at different times during the week. The focus is on basic math skills and reading/writing skills.
Saint Leonard’s Ministries does not charge residents and program participants for any services. Residents and program participants can focus on healing, learning and their return to our communities.
HIGH SCHOOL COMPLETION CERTIFICATE
Sister Jean Hughes Adult High School
This single-semester, senior year equivalency program provides an opportunity for formerly incarcerated adult students (over the age of 21) to earn a High School Completion Certificate. The program has been in operation for 16 years and has graduated well over 500 students. Classes meet four nights a week for 3.5 hours and are taught by some of the finest educators in Chicago; most are seasoned college professors or adult educators. For those who are not residents of Saint Leonard’ Ministries and are interested in enrolling, registration for the fall semester opens the first week of August, and registration for the spring semester opens the second week of January.
LIFE SKILLS TRAINING
Financial Literacy
To prepare participants for self-sufficiency, the Barlow Center offers a 4-week financial literacy class to teach participants about opening a bank account, how to establish good credit, budgeting, banking in the digital age, and other important financial topics.
“Everybody is about progress. I love this place because it is continually moving me forward day by day.”
— Edward, Barlow Center Alum
LIFE SKILLS TRAINING
Computer Literacy
Through a 4-week computer literacy class, participants have access to one-on-one support that empowers them to become more comfortable and confident with computers in their personal and professional lives. Computer Literacy provides participants with basic computer skills, internet and e-mail basics, an introduction to Windows and Microsoft Suite, and how to research on the internet, including career searching.
