“I find everything that I learn useful... Helps me to express the correct way in English... I have learned pronunciation from this class.”

-Silvia Gonzales, student

CWL's educational programs build a dynamic bridge linking the students' academic studies with their work experience. While the CWL ADP's core academic and pervasive skills can be applied in any workplace situation, the content of all CWL ADP courses are modified to better develop skills and background knowledge, which are directly relevant to the workplace. This applies to both workplace-specific and community-based programs. For example, the science curriculum at the Malden Housing Project was adapted to target biology because all of the students worked in the health care field.

The CWL Adult Diploma Curriculum is a solid course of study resulting in a high school diploma. Our curriculum is reviewed by the high school issuing the diploma and is constantly being evaluated to make sure that it is of the highest quality. The CWL ADP develops core academic skills in reading comprehension, writing and mathematics in all of its courses, not just Language Arts and Math.

Basic information technology literacy is a central component of the CWL Adult Diploma Program. All CWL ADP courses integrate the development of applications software skills including word processing, spreadsheets and databases and key Internet skills for doing online research. The CWL ADP also uses targeted educational software for skill practice and for exciting group challenges. Students develop strong word processing skills over the entire program of study as they write and refine their papers in Language Arts, Science, History and the Life Employment Workshop. The Math course utilizes spreadsheets and problem solving software. Students also do extensive research on the Internet to find information for their papers and projects.

At every site that the CWL Adult Diploma Program is offered, a diploma consultant is a constant support and resource for the students. The diploma consultant provides additional case management when needed, assists instructors, and handles most administrative duties related to a specific site. CWL recognizes that there are various obstacles to student engagement in educational programs and that students need to learn to deal honestly with these issues to promote their success in the program. Support services are adapted to the needs of the students in the context of the program. For example, the model of the CWL ADP in a correctional institution built in extensive supported homework time both to provide a positive environment for study and to build supportive relationships with the Diploma Consultants.