About Hants Learning Network Association
Located at 90 Sanford Drive in the Windsor - West Hants Industrial Park, Hants Learning Network Association is a non-profit literacy organization and registered charity that provides free adult and family learning programs.
Mission
The Hants Learning Network Association works to improve the lives of residents by promoting lifelong learning and providing opportunities for all to improve their literacy skills in a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.
Background
Prior to 1994 a group of community people held meetings in an attempt to identify and address literacy needs in Hants County, Nova Scotia. This group was originally known as the Literacy Committee and was made up of interested individuals, tutors, learners, and representatives from other community groups with a desire to promote literacy.
In January 1994, the NS Department of Education introduced the Community Learning Initiative (CLI) with a mandate to enhance the skills of community members and to answer community-learning needs through local learning networks. The Literacy Committee began meeting monthly and actively solicited participation from additional community organizations and individuals who were prepared to provide organizational and administrative leadership.
In March of the same year, a day-long organizational meeting was held which resulted in the formation of the West Hants Learning Network Association. It was incorporated as a non-profit organization with the Registry of Joint Stocks in June 1995. It has since been renamed the Hants Learning Network Association (HLNA).
Today, HLNA is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, which meets bimonthly during the school year. Experienced staff members administer HLNA programming and qualified teachers instruct Adult Learning Program classes.
HLNA's Adult Learning Programs and Family Literacy Programs are funded by the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning in the Department of Labour, Skills, and Immigration.
What Does HLNA Do?
HLNA offers a variety of learning programs in the areas of adult literacy, essential skills, family literacy, computer literacy, and G.E.D. preparation.
Adult Learning Program classes are taught by qualified teachers and provide adults with opportunities to improve their literacy skills. Learners may enter these free programs at any point in the school year. Level One offers course material focuses on reading, writing, and math. Levels Two and Three include lessons and skills in math, communications, human relations, social studies, science, and computers. Skills for the workforce are integrated in all programs. Free day and evening classes are available, including G.E.D. preparation programs.
Adults who are not able to participate in classes or who need assistance in a specific subject may sign up for free one-on-one tutoring. Volunteer tutors provide individualized instruction in reading, writing, and math.
Specialized four to six week workshops for adults are also offered from September to June. These workshops focus on specific topic areas to help adults improve their skills for home, community, and work.
HLNA also offers the "Family Literacy Fun!" program for families with elementary school-aged children. Experienced facilitators guide families through activities, games, and workshops designed to make learning more fun for the whole family.
Special programs and events are offered as funding and partnerships permit. All programs offered by HLNA are FREE!