By Anita Weier
Northside News

Madison-based Literacy Network offers tutoring programs that provide help to those seeking high school equivalency diplomas, essential literacy assistance and English as a Second Language instruction.

The organization, which is headquartered in South Madison and provides many services there, is now attempting to increase services on the Northside. Marie Knibbe, who oversees GED/HSED and Essential Literacy tutoring for the Literacy Network, is particularly interested in expanding assistance in those realms.

Knibbe, who has worked in the adult basic literacy field for 35 years, explained that the organization trains volunteers in tutoring principles and processes. Lesson plans are also provided.

“Our tutors work with the same student all the time. They meet once a week for two hours. If someone is studying for a GED exam, we have practice tests that are a pretty accurate predictor of success,” Knibbe said. As supervisor, she gives vouchers for practice tests and the real test.

There are two different ways to achieve a GED diploma. One leads to computer-based timed tests, and another provides classroom instruction with pencil-and-paper tests. Both options can result in a high school diploma. In either case, students must register at Madison Area Technical College (Madison College).

“We give an orientation and help students get into the pipeline. They have to take a reading test. If the score is too low for high school completion studies, MATC connects them with classes at the college,” Knibbe said.

“We also have a basic literacy program for adults who want to build literacy skills. We have four groups managed by trained interns. One meets virtually in the evening and the others are in person. We don’t have one on the Northside yet.”

Literacy Network tutors meet with students at the Literacy Network headquarters at 701 Dane St. or at Madison College, community centers or libraries.

“I had a pair last semester who met at Lakeview Library,” Knibbe said. “Since most of our resources are in South Madison, I want to expand them to North Madison. Summer is prime time for tutor recruitment.”

People interested in volunteering or in learning should go to the Literacy Network website (litnetwork.org) to sign up. Knibbe can be reached at mariek@litnetwork.org or at 608-268-6542.