Community Programs

Meriden Adult Education endorses and participates in a variety of community learning programs including the following:

Meriden Public Library

The Library is your one stop for information. We offer comprehensive adult and children’s collections; a computer system that links you to other libraries throughout the state; bookmobile services; and satellite programs at 3 Meriden elementary schools. Call 203-238-2344 for more information or visit us online. Also at the Meriden Public Library:

• Literacy Volunteer Tutor Training – Become a Literacy Volunteer by learning the techniques of teaching Basic Reading or English as a Second Language (ESL). In our 18-hour training, you will learn how to teach basic skills. No prior teaching or college experience required. Materials and instruction are free of charge. Call 203-235-1714.
• Children First Initiative – CFI improves the lives of Meriden children and families through increased parent involvement in civic life. We provide parents with training programs, serve as a citywide convener on children’s issues, and sponsor and disseminate key research on the status of Meriden’s families. Call 203-630-3566 or visit our website.

Meriden Parent Leadership Training Institute

Meriden’s PLTI teaches parents wanting to improve lifelong health, safety and learning of children how to become stronger leaders for their children and community. This is a 20-week course to address issues of concern such as neighborhood safety, community economic development, quality child health care, educational development and improving the quality of their lives through self-empowerment. Call 203-630-3566 or visit our website.

Senior Buddy Readers

For Meriden citizens over 50...Become a Senior Buddy Reader!  Senior Buddy Readers is a volunteer program that unites senior citizens with 1st and 2nd graders in the Meriden Public Schools.  Seniors are taught reading strategies to help the children improve their reading skills.  For more information, call Meriden Children First Initiative at (203) 630-3566.

School Readiness

The School Readiness program offers affordable, quality child care for three and four year old Meriden residents through a grant provided by the State Department of Education. The family weekly fee is based on income. Families receiving state cash assistance (TFA) who are not employed are not required to pay a fee. To be eligible, your child must be a Meriden resident between the ages of 3 and 4. If you need quality full time or part time child care, please contact the Meriden School Readiness Office at 203-630-4236 or visit our website.

Would you like to teach a course for us?

Are you a born teacher? Do you have a talent, skill or interest that you would like to share with others? If so, we would like to hear from you. Please send your course description and resume to: Donald Friedman, Director, Meriden Adult Education, 22 Liberty Street, Room 1a, Meriden, CT 06450.