Workforce Development at Parkland College and Express Employment Professionals in Rantoul, Illinois, will continue their partnership this fall, offering the first semester of an Adult Education ESL workplace literacy class.
In April 2026, Parkland's Adult Education piloted this class opportunity designed for individuals working or seeking jobs within Rantoul Industrial Park companies. These include Rantoul Foods, JELD-WEN Windows and Doors, and others.
The free class teaches basic English with a focus on language needed for successful employment in entry-level manufacturing jobs. Students learn safety in the workplace, job readiness skills, basic manufacturing terminology, and orientation materials specific to Industrial Park companies and Express.
"I think it is a really great program," said student Carolina Mendoza, who attended the pilot class offering in April. "It's beginner friendly and starts off at a pace that works for us to adjust. I really appreciated how the instructor pushed us to read and think in English so that we would have more confidence in ourselves and our knowledge of the language. Overall, it was a great environment with helpful lessons and activities."
Students demonstrating competency in the class are encouraged to work with Express for job advancement. They’re also encouraged to pursue additional career training through Parkland's manufacturing Illinois Integrated Career and Academic Preparation System (ICAPS) program beginning January 2027.
ICAPS supports Adult Education students in completing manufacturing certificates while at Parkland College, supported by the college’s Workforce Development.
The fall 2026 semester began with 20 registered students meeting three days a week. Workforce Development is prepared to offer additional class sections based on employer and student demand.
"We’re excited to offer this very important service for the Rantoul community," Adult Education Associate Director Kiefer Owens said. "We’re eager to see the career advancement our students are able to accomplish with this initiative."
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Parkland College
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