Programs

BEACON offers tuition-free small group and one-on-one tutoring to adults in the western Prince William County Virginia area. Educational specializations include English as a Second Language, GED preparation (High School Equivalency), Citizenship preparation, and Basic Literacy. Quarterly Life-Skills Workshops are held in addition to weekly programs. Small group tutoring is held at various community partner sites throughout the area while one-on-one tutoring is set up to meet the specific needs of tutor and learner.

BEACON also offers workforce development programs including the Nurse Aide Language Preparation Program, an eight-week course that focuses on the language skills needed to be successful as a nurse aide. It is for individuals who speak English as a second language on an intermediate to advanced level and are interested in a career in the medical field. Priority will be given students who want to complete a certified nurse aide program during the next year.

The population of the Prince William County area (including Prince William County, Manassas City and Manassas Park) grew by 100,564 residents, or 44% (4.2% annual growth) between 1990 and 2000 based on census data. From 2000 to 2003 annual growth is an estimated 4.8% adding 47,242 more people bringing the total population to 373,480. The area's population began expanding rapidly in 1980 and is expected to continue this trend. Between 1990 and 2000 the Hispanic population tripled to 34,088 in 2000. People of Hispanic origin comprise over 10.4% of the population and are the largest segment of residents using our ESOL program.

Due to population growth which is expected to continue at 4-5% annually, increased penetration into Spanish speaking homes, additional emphasis on GED preparedness and new programs in computer, workforce and financial literacy, BEACON expects to grow by 10% each year for the next 3-5 years.