SER is in the process of developing a Bridge program in the Advanced Manufacturing and Energy Efficiency/HVAC sectors.  Bridge programs are defined as those that include the following key elements: contextualized instruction (basic reading, math, and language skills and industry/occupation knowledge); career development (career exploration and planning; understanding the world of work); and transition services (case management, financial and personal supports, tutoring).  These programs have been proven successful in breaking down the obstacles that have long kept low-literacy adults from getting ahead economically.  They are more effective than traditional adult education programs in quickly improving the basic skill levels of adults and assisting learners in transitioning to occupational training and employment along a career pathway.

SER is seeking the services of one or more contractors to develop two contextualized basic skills curricula by April, 15th, 2013. One curriculum will be taught in the context of careers in the manufacturing field and the other in the context of careers in the energy efficiency/HVAC field.  Both should assist students in improving reading comprehension, writing and math skills while exposing them to concepts, practices and knowledge of the associated industry sector(s) in an integrated fashion.  The ultimate goal of the curriculum is to prepare students to achieve the college entrance exam scores they need to place into occupational training programs; the contextualized basic skills training will “bridge” them into college.