Adult Basic Education, English as a Second Language move to Pewaukee Campus

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In January, the Adult Basic Education and English as a Second Language (ESL) pre-college level programs moved from the Waukesha Campus to the main Pewaukee Campus and are now centrally located in Building K. (U.S. Citizenship, Spanish General Education Development Certificate and Learning in Retirement classes will remain at the Waukesha location, 327 E. Broadway.)

Adult Basic Education serves students who are seeking a high school credential, such as a General Education Development Certificate (GED), High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) or adult high school diploma. The program also helps students who need to improve their skills for testing, former ESL students and students with learning differences.

ESL serves non-native English speakers of differing skill levels. Courses are available from beginner to advanced, along with ESL preparation for occupational programs. These focus on preparing learners with the skills needed to communicate effectively at home, work and in the community. Currently, 37 different languages and 51 different countries are represented. Additionally, college-level ESL offerings are available to those already enrolled – or those who are planning to enroll -- in a WCTC academic program; these classes are available in the Student Enrichment Center.

To acclimate students to the Pewaukee Campus, two special events were held in fall for the Waukesha Campus students who would soon be attending classes at the main campus, said Linda Gordy, associate dean of College and Career Readiness, who oversees the ABE and ESL pre-college offerings.

For the first event, Waukesha students had an opportunity to travel to the main campus at no cost via Waukesha Metro Transit -- with a stop at the transfer station then on to Pewaukee -- to become familiar with a new transportation route if they commute by bus. For the second event, students were introduced to College leaders, faculty and staff; toured classrooms and labs; and participated in a class on campus. Additionally, during the first week of classes, students were treated to coffee, donuts and other goodies.

These events have helped students navigate the bigger campus and become a part of the larger WCTC community.

“It has been no surprise to us that our students would be resilient and find their ways to Building K … and move easily from building to building,” Gordy said. “The students have mentioned that they felt very welcome by everyone they met.”

While the Waukesha Campus is a significantly smaller venue with easy access from downtown Waukesha, the Pewaukee Campus offers students expanded resources, including academic support, dining services, the library, student life activities and more.

“I think students feel they are part of a college environment now that we are on this campus, and that provides motivation to complete their work with us and to transition to college classes,” Gordy said. “This campus is beautiful and provides so many resources and exciting programs for students. They don’t have to worry about getting to know a new location or get used to a new setting if they decide to transition.”