Named after baseball legend and philanthropist, Cal Ripken, Jr., Baltimore Reads’ Ripken Adult Learning Center offers the following:

Beginning Literacy Programs

Kurt Schmoke Reading Program

The Kurt Schmoke Reading Program specifically satisfies the needs of students

who want to learn to read more proficiently. Vocabulary development is an essential component of the program. Students are introduced to a variety of proven reading strategies designed to ensure ongoing developmental success.

Programs

Providing Skills for Life

Adult Basic Education (ABE) Program

The ABE program is designed specifically for students who need

to learn the foundation of basic literacy skills. The class sizes are

small with continuous encouragement allowing students to discover

the joys of reading and basic mathematical skills. There is a great

sense of  camaraderie in ABE classes as students band together

to help each other develop both their academic and interpersonal skills.

GED Prep Classes

Pre-GED and GED

Classes at this level include:

         Language Arts - Reading & Writing

         Mathematics

         Social Studies

         Science

         Writing & Math Workshops

It is very important at the Pre-GED/GED level for the students to develop

strong critical thinking skills, to be able to infer and estimate, and to use

a variety of media and research materials.  Baltimore Reads encourages

and administers the GED Official Practice Test, in preparation for the

GED exam. We also provide 20 students per year with scholarships to

cover the cost of taking the GED test.

ESL Classes

At Baltimore Reads, our ESL students come from all over the world. Some of our students are university graduates

who face the challenge of communicating in English.  Others need to acquire more basic English language skills to acquire a GED. For everyone, job attainment is high on the list of goals. Adult ESL learners are guided by an instructor and a team of ‘conversation partners’ to develop a functional command of the English language.  

Lessons focus on reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Special attention is paid to idiomatic use, everyday expressions and understanding the cultural nuances of American English.