
English Language Learning
English Language Students
Free English language tutoring and conversation classes for adults who live or work in Needham.
English Language Tutors
Volunteer tutors help students who are new to English: an enriching and satisfying experience.
Current Events
Events for our ELL Students and Tutors to enrich their learning.
English Language Students

Student Info

Who Can Participate in the Program?
- Adults who live or work in Needham are welcome.
- Complete the “Sign Up Here” above. We will contact you to match you with a tutor.
- There is no cost – all tutoring is FREE
- All levels of learners are welcome!
How Long do Students Meet with a Tutor?
- We ask that students meet at least an hour weekly for at least nine months.
- Of course you and your tutor can take vacations.
When and Where do Students and Tutors Meet?
- Students meet weekly with tutors in the morning, afternoon, evening, or on weekends for about an hour.
- Both in person and on Zoom
- Space is available at Needham Community Council either outdoors or in the building
- At the Needham Free Library
Additional Student Resources
Try these on-line resources: ELL Student Resources
Helpful local community resources: ELL Focused Community Resources
Contact Info
Please email the ELL Program Manager, Julie Tovar, at
jtovar@needhamcouncil.orgLearning Opportunities

Class Basics
All Classes listed below are held at the Needham Community Council unless otherwise noted.
To join a class, please complete a sign up and select group classes. Our program manager, Julie Tovar, will be in touch to help you find the a class that is perfect for you.
Sign up Links:
If you have any questions, please contact Julie Tovar at jtovar@needhamcouncil.org or 781-444-2415.
Beginner Level Classes
Monday Morning Beginners
Mondays 9:30-10:30 am
Volunteer Leader: Susan Kams
Small group for beginners. Practice conversation and
learn about US culture. Registration required.
If you have any questions, please contact Julie Tovar at jtovar@needhamcouncil.org or 781-444-2415.
Advanced Beginner - Intermediate Level Classes
Tuesday Night Conversation–ONLINE
Tues 7:30-8:30 pm on ZOOM.
Volunteer Leader: Deborah Lashley
Drop in for informal English practice! Registration required.
If you have any questions, please contact Julie Tovar at jtovar@needhamcouncil.org or 781-444-2415.
Intermediate - Advanced Level Classes
Saturday Intermediate Citizenship
Saturdays 9:30-10:30.
Volunteer Leader: Charnay Kirsch
Intermediate level learners can practice English conversation and prepare for the
US Citizenship interview and test. Registration required.
Intermediate Conversation
Tuesdays 1-2 pm.
Volunteer Leader: Jan Cohen
Discuss current events and read short news articles. Registration required.
American Literature and Current Events
Weds 11 am – noon
Volunteer Leader: Rick Perras
This group will discuss current events and read and discuss
Hemingway’s “Old Man and the Sea.” Registration required.
Friday Intermediate Group
Fridays 10:30 am at Needham Community Council
Volunteer Leader: Beverly Schwartz
Join us to practice vocabulary and conversation. Registration required.
If you have any questions, please contact Julie Tovar at jtovar@needhamcouncil.org or 781-444-2415.
Contact Info
Please email the ELL Program Manager, Julie Tovar, at
jtovar@needhamcouncil.org or call 781-444-2415 for more information.
English Language Tutors

Tutor Info

How do I Become a Tutor?
- Twice a year, Spring and Fall, we run a tutor training program for new tutors.
- If you are interested and over 18, we encourage you to fill out the Tutor Interest Form to begin the process.
- We will contact you to discuss the available opportunities
- Tutors are required to complete training classes which take place over several evenings.
- A CORI form is required.
What Makes an Effective Tutor?
Tutors DO NOT need to know the language of their student or have teaching experience.
- Being flexible, welcoming, and open to other cultures is essential.
- The training workshop provides a variety of techniques for teaching without the need for translation.
- A good ELL tutor can speak English fluently, articulate clearly, and is familiar with American culture.
- We support tutors with resources and training.
Different Tutor Opportunities
- Individual Tutoring
- Group Lessons
- Conversation Groups
- On-line or In person meetings
- Special Events – field trips, cooking classes, knitting group
What’s the Time Commitment?
- We ask that tutors and students participate for at least 9 months, meeting once a week.
- Most meetings last for 1 to 1.5 hours.
When and Where do Students and Tutors Meet?
- Students meet weekly with tutors in the morning, afternoon, evening, or on weekends for about an hour.
- Both in person and on Zoom
- Many students prefer to meet virtually
- Space is available at Needham Community Council either outdoors or in the building
- At the Needham Free Library
What do English Language Learners Want to Learn?
- Most learners want to improve their listening comprehension and speaking skills to communicate better with co-workers, neighbors, school and medical personnel, on the phone, etc.
- Many need to read and write better for everyday life or employment.
- Many students want to become more familiar with American culture.
- Some have a specific goal in mind, such as getting a job, a driver’s license, or a GED, becoming a U.S. citizen, or passing a college entrance test.
Other Resources

Websites Resources for Tutors
There are a number of on-line resources we recommend for tutors of all levels of students.
Current ELL Events

Event Information

Fall Walk & Talks are Back in November!
Join other learners and tutors for a casual Walk & Talk around the Reservoir trail.
Tutors, learners, and community members can join in this fun activity to get some fresh air and practice their English. These walks are led by dedicated ELL volunteer, Beth Crastnopol. All levels welcome.
Thursday November 16 & 30
1:00 – 2:00 pm
Reservoir Trail, 500 Dedham Ave., Needham
If you have any questions, please contact Julie Tovar at 781-444-2415 or jtovar@needhamcouncil.org.