Adult Basic Learners (first language is English)
- Not surprisingly, we all learn differently. At the Adult Literacy Service, we try to consider all of an adult new reader's preferences to help him/her feel comfortable learning. We have materials and techniques geared to all types of learning styles, and we even have a staff person dedicated to helping tutors and students develop individualized plans around the student's needs, preferences, and goals.
A learning disability is typically diagnosed by a psychiatrist or psychologist with specific training in learning disability assessment. Literacy staff may identify characteristics of learning disabilities, but we cannot diagnose a learning disability. Our staff focuses on teaching to the learner's strengths while accommodating and adapting for challenges. This approach allows both the tutor and adult learner to think creatively about new ways to teach and learn.
Other Learning Opportunities for ABE Learners:
Adult Learner Book Club – Meets monthly; a chance to meet with other students in the program and read and discuss fun books.
Tutor Support:
We offer ABE tutors personalized support and help with materials selection for their tutoring sessions. We also provide continuing education workshops on various techniques and strategies for Adult Basic instruction.
For more information contact Jolene White, ABE & LD Literacy Specialist, at 918.549.7402.
Learn More About Learning Differences with These Resources:
LD Online is a wonderful resource for facts, definitions, and teaching ideas. Although much of the information focuses on the needs of children with learning disabilities, the educator's section offers tips that can be easily adapted for working with adults.
The Learning Disability Association of America offers information for adult learners about legal rights, workplace accommodations, and social and emotional effects of learning disabilities.
The National Council for Learning Disabilities website contains information specifically for adults with LD. Topics include LD on the job, legal rights, and LD and relationships.
Bright Solutions for Dyslexia: Sharing the latest research on dyslexia and tips for someone who has been diagnosed with dyslexia.
The National Institute for Literacy's fact sheets and statistics on learning disabilities
English Language Learners (ELLs)
Approximately three quarters of the adult learners in our literacy program are English language learners. Spanish is the native language of about 60% of our English language learners. However, our students come from all over the globe, including Syria, Taiwan, India, Israel, Korea and Germany. All English language learners come with the same goal: to be able to understand and fluently speak English.
Conversation Circles – A fun and friendly class designed to help students practice their English speaking and listening skills. Scheduled weekly, in person and on Zoom! Register for Conversation Circles WITH THIS LINK.
Tutor Support:
We offer ELL tutors personalized support and help with materials selection for their tutoring sessions. We also provide continuing education workshops on various techniques and strategies for English language instruction.
For more information contact Fatima Zehra, ELL Literacy Specialist, at 918.549.7402.
Learn More About Local English Language Resources with these links:
Digital Literacy
Many adult literacy learners have the goal of improving their basic technology skills. Literacy students can also increase their reading and English-speaking skills by using the educational software programs that are available in our Literacy Learning Centers. The Literacy Learning Centers are located at the four regional libraries:
The Learning Centers are available to use during regular library hours 9a.m.-9p.m.
For further technology help, please contact our Literacy Computer Assistant:
- Alisa Brooks, Literacy Computer Assistant
- Alisa.Brooks@tulsalibrary.org
- Phone: 918-549-7400
GED Prep
- High School Equivalency Exam (HiSET): https://hiset.org
- General Educational Development (GED): https://www.ged.com
- Excel High School: https://www.tulsalibrary.org/excel-high-school
- DEC 2024: Applications for Excel High School are currently CLOSED.
- Study Guide Zone: studyguidezone.com/gedtest.htm
- Varsity Tutors Practice Tests: varsitytutors.com/practice-tests
Union Adult Learning Center: https://ualc.unionps.org/high-school-equivalency-prpepatation
The Union Adult Learning Center provides High School Equivalency test preparation classes throughout northeast Oklahoma. Students seeking high school equivalency do not complete high school. Instead, they enroll in coursework that will enable them to pass a test to demonstrate they possess knowledge equivalent to a high school graduate.
Brainfuse Adult Learning Center: https://alc.brainfuse.com/alc/home.asp?adult=1&a_id=F63A9782
This site, and app, can help you study for the High School Equivalency Exam, enhance your test-taking skills, take practice tests and get live online test coaching from 2pm-11pm.
Driver's Licenses
- Driver's License Information: https://oklahoma.gov/service/all-services/driving-and-automobiles.html
- Oklahoma Driver Manual, 2023: https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/service-oklahoma/Documents/OklahomaDriverManual2023.pdf
- REAL ID Information: https://oklahoma.gov/service/popular-services/real-id-checklist.html
Continuing Education Opportunities
Sample Lesson Plans
Open Minds Tutor Training: Real World Lesson Plan template pg. 129 of manual
Open Minds ELL Tutor Training: Sample Lesson Plan template pg. 118 of manual
Basic Needs
Library Customer Care Hotline: Call 918-549-7323 or refer to their website at https://www.tulsalibrary.org/ask-a-question
Housed at the Central Library, TCCL staff are ready to answer general reference questions and help customers find local, community resources, during regular library operating hours.
211 of Eastern Oklahoma: Call 211 for live help, 24 hours a day, or search their website for services https://211eok.org
211 Eastern Oklahoma is a 24/7 free service that is available to Eastern Oklahomans through a direct phone call, live chat, text message or online search. We maintain a comprehensive database of 1,141 provider agencies representing 9,864 vetted services across the 37 counties we serve that is updated regularly. Our team of resource specialists deliver quick, accurate results for those who need help in a professional and caring manner.
Citizenship & Immigration
Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma: https://cceok.org/immigration or call: 918-508-7180
Helps people obtain legal documentation and citizenship in cooperation with the US Department of Homeland Security, and provides legal assistance regarding immigration issues. Services include assistance with Family Petitions, Consular Processing, Special Immigrant Juvenile Petitions, Deportation/Removal Proceedings, VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) Petitions, Naturalization/Citizenship, Fee Waivers, Green Card Renewal or Replacement, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Support for victims of violent crime, including domestic violence, Support for victims of human trafficking, and Asylum.
Citizenship Resource Center: https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship
The Citizenship Resource Center has a collection of helpful resources and free study materials for a variety of users including:
Immigrants who are interested in becoming U.S. citizens. Lawful permanent residents (LPRs) will find information about the naturalization process, eligibility requirements, and study materials to prepare for the naturalization interview and test.
Educators who play a critical role in preparing learners. Educators including teachers, volunteers, and program administrators will find several resources for the classroom. Educators can also search for free USCIS training seminars designed to enhance the skills needed to teach U.S. history, civics, and the naturalization process to immigrant students.
Organizations that are interested in supporting immigrants in becoming citizens and assisting them to integrate into American civic society. Whether an organization is just beginning to help immigrants on their journey towards citizenship or is an experienced service provider, they will find resources to help enhance their overall efforts and programs.
National Immigrant Justice Center: Know Your Rights if You Encounter ICE:
- English: https://immigrantjustice.org/sites/default/files/content-type/know-your-rights/documents/2024-11/KYR%20-%20Encounter%20ICE%20Nov.%202024%20%28English%29.pdf
- Spanish: https://immigrantjustice.org/sites/default/files/content-type/know-your-rights/documents/2024-11/KYR%20-%20Encounter%20ICE%20Nov.%202024%20%28Spanish%29.pdf
All individuals in the United States have rights, regardless of immigration status. The following information can help you protect yourself and your family, and defend your rights.
YWCA of Tulsa: Immigrant & Refugee Services: https://www.ywcatulsa.org/immigrant-refugee-services
YWCA has been at the frontline of serving immigrants and refugees since the beginning of the 20th century. Nationally, YWCA is listed on Ellis Island as being a welcoming organization providing services to newly arrived immigrants, as well as providing some of the very first English Language courses.
YWCA Tulsa has been dedicated to serving immigrants and refugees for more than 35 years, and we continue to be focused on addressing systemic disparities for newcomers, eliminate barriers, and invest in the success of those who have come to our community to build a new life.
Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence Intervention Services (DVIS): https://dvis.org or call 24-Hour Information & Crisis Line 918.7HELP.ME / 918-743-5763
Provides crisis line and texting line for any survivor or perpetrator of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking, and/or stalking.
Family Safety Center: https://fsctulsa.org or call: 918-742-7480
Offers legal advocates who provide danger assessment and safety planning and assistance with Affidavit preparation. Bilingual Advocates. Referrals to confidential, emergency shelter. Forensic nurses, specially trained and certified in sexual assault, injury documentation and immediate health assessment/referral. Access to law enforcement detectives. Referrals to Child Advocate Therapist to assist parents and children with trauma related issues. Referrals to other community resources for basic needs and long -term counseling for the victim, children and family members. Spiritual support through Multi-Faith Chaplain.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: http://www.thehotline.org or call Toll Free 1-800-799-7233
The Helpline (thehotline.org) and loveisrespect.org offer real-time one-on-one support from trained Peer Advocates. Peer Advocates are trained to offer support, information and advocacy to those involved in dating abuse relationships as well as concerned parents, teachers, clergy, law enforcement, and service providers.
Healthcare
Oklahoma 211 Resource Directory: Health/Dental: https://211eok.org/ or call 211
211 Eastern Oklahoma is a 24/7 free service that is available to Eastern Oklahomans through a direct phone call, live chat, text message or online search. We maintain a comprehensive database of 1,141 provider agencies representing 9,864 vetted services across the 37 counties we serve that is updated regularly. Our team of resource specialists deliver quick, accurate results for those who need help in a professional and caring manner.
Tulsa Healthcare Coverage Program: https://www.ou.edu/tulsa/residency/family_medicine/tulsa-healthcare-coverage-program or call: 918-619-4749
The Tulsa Healthcare Coverage Program (THCP) is a grant funded OU-TU School of Community Medicine program that works to identify uninsured Tulsans and provide them with an eligibility screening for available coverage options. Team members assist qualifying individuals with enrollment in public healthcare coverage options and, where possible, provide health literacy education.
Tulsa Health Department: Community Health: https://tulsa-health.org/programs/community-health/ or call: 918-595-4307
Partnering with local health systems, our Community Health programs provide healthcare and social services to those who need it the most. Our Community Health Workers are the key to reaching underserved populations, providing them with the care they require and serving as a bridge to access the necessary services. This ensures individuals don’t have to navigate complex healthcare systems on their own.
Mental Health
COPES Crisis Services: 918-744-4800, or refer to their website: https://www.fcsok.org/copes-innovative-community-resource/
Provides 24/7 rapid response, stabilization and intervention for all ages in Tulsa County for persons who feel out of control or have thoughts of suicide, harming themselves or hurting others.
Mental Health Lifeline: Call or text: 988 or refer to their website: https://988oklahoma.com/
Oklahoma's statewide mental health lifeline.
Oklahoma 211 Resource Directory: Health/Dental: https://211eok.org/
211 Eastern Oklahoma is a 24/7 free service that is available to Eastern Oklahomans through a direct phone call, live chat, text message or online search. We maintain a comprehensive database of 1,141 provider agencies representing 9,864 vetted services across the 37 counties we serve that is updated regularly. Our team of resource specialists deliver quick, accurate results for those who need help in a professional and caring manner.
Reentry Resources
City of Tulsa Re-Entry Services: https://www.cityoftulsa.org/government/resilient-tulsa/justice-involved-supports/programs-and-resources/re-entry-services
For those who were involved in the justice system, re-integrating into society can be difficult. Finding a job, getting access to transportation and securing quality affordable housing are some of the biggest struggles for those the justice system impacts. This websites provides links to some of the ways Tulsans can get the help they need.
Tulsa County Alternative Courts Program: https://www.facebook.com/tulsaalternativecourt or call: 918-596-8595
A program designed as an alternative to incarceration for offenders in the criminal justice system in need of drug, alcohol and/or mental health treatment.
Women in Recovery, Tulsa: https://www.fcsok.org/services/women-in-recovery or call: 918-947-4200
Women in Recovery (WIR) is an intensive outpatient alternative for eligible women facing long prison sentences. Operated in partnership with the George Kaiser Family Foundation, WIR works closely with the criminal justice system and various community partners to ensure program participants receive supervision, substance abuse and mental health treatment, education, workforce readiness training and family reunification services.
Addiction, abuse and poverty are factors that impact the vast majority of WIR participants. We help women conquer their drug addiction, recover from trauma and acquire the essential economic, emotional and social tools to build successful and productive lives. WIR is designed for women who are dedicated to changing their lives and becoming positive, contributing members of our community.
Tutoring for school-aged children
Based on their homework assistance needs, registered students will be assigned a Homework Coach to work with them weekly for up to 30 minutes.
Get free online homework assistance from your home, school or library. Use your Tulsa City-County Library card for access.
- Live Tutoring | 2-11 p.m. seven days a week for grades K through College; select your grade and subject from drop menus to connect via a chat session with a live tutor; Spanish-speaking tutors also available at all levels. [tutors are background checked and chat sessions are monitored]
- Writing Lab | Any day of the week or time of day, upload your completed writing assignment and one of their writing experts will analyze it and provide helpful comments; response is usually within two to three business days,
- SkillSurfer | Live skills building and a library of lessons, videos, tests and more at Elementary, Middle and High School levels.
- Flashcard Sets | Available 24/7 and in hundreds of subjects for math, science, history, languages, geography, standardized tests, business, medical, and agriculture. Study anytime, make your own, take them on the go with the Brainfuse mobile app. Efficient tools for self-study.
- Adult Learners | High school equivalency prep, U.S. Citizenship test prep, Microsoft Office help, Career Resources, Resume writing help, and more.
Tulsa Organizations & Services | Tutoring:
Use this resource to locate, and connect with, not-for-profit organizations in Tulsa County. TOS features charitable organizations, hobby clubs, educational and advocacy groups, professional societies, civic and fraternal organizations, and cultural institutions. Highlighted services include scholarships, training opportunities, and speakers.