These Skills for Success, Language and Writing Skills classes are available this semester to help CSEA-represented employees develop their English language, pronunciation, and writing skills. All courses are free and open to CSEA-represented NYS employees. Other CSEA-represented employees may enroll as space permits. 

You must receive supervisory approval to attend courses without charge to leave credits unless the classes are held on your pass day. Enroll in the Statewide Learning Management System (SLMS) using the relevant SLMS Class Code, or complete and return our application form. For more information, review the course details below.

Phone: (800) 253-4332 Option 1  
Email: [email protected]
 

This class is one day per week for six weeks. Attendance is required all days.
 

This course is a continuation of Focus on Pronunciation: Level 1. Participants are encouraged – but not required – to complete Level 1 prior to Level 2. This course will help you expand your pronunciation and verbal communication skills, regardless of your first language. You’ll practice speaking clearly and accurately in everyday situations, explore the rhythm of the English Language, and develop a plan to improve your personal pronunciation.

By the end of the class, you will be able to:

• Listen for differences when pronouncing words.
• Explore how rhythm and intonation (pattern of high and low notes) add meaning to speech.
• Identify correct emphasis (stress) for common words.
• Develop a plan to improve your personal pronunciation.
  
   

CSEA Capital Region 4

Capital District DDSO
500 Balltown Road, Bldg. 3, Rm. 5, Schenectady, 12304

Wednesdays | 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
February 25, March 4, 11, 18, 25, & April 1, 2026
Alternate Snow Date: April 8, 2026

SLMS Class Code: P_OE_R4_6389

Space is limited. Enroll by February 11, 2026.

Enroll through SLMS using the SLMS Class Code or use the application form.

This online class is two, 2.5-hour sessions per week for six weeks. Attendance is required all days, and you must have access to a computer and an Internet connection.
 

This course will help you read and understand written materials. You will analyze the connection between reading and writing, including identifying main ideas and supporting details in your own work and works written by others. You will also use the writing cycle to develop your own personal narrative essay. 

By the end of the class, you will be able to:

• Apply six core active reading strategies to improve comprehension.
• Discuss literature elements common to all stories.
• Analyze text to determine meaning.
• Produce a personal narrative essay following the writing cycle.

Online - Statewide

Thursdays & Fridays | 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
February 26, 27; March 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27; April 2 & 3, 2026

SLMS Class Code: P_AEB_R9_6378
 

Space is limited. Enroll by February 12, 2026.

Enroll through SLMS using the SLMS Class Code or use the application form.

This class is one day per week for six weeks. Attendance is required all days.
 

In this class, you will practice reading, writing, speaking, and listening in the English language with a focus on your role as an employee, community member, family member, and citizen. Prior to starting the class, you should have a basic understanding of the English language. The first class includes a mandatory skills assessment.
 

By the end of the class, you will be able to:

• Define and apply new vocabulary words.
• Identify and use community resources necessary for daily living.
• Communicate basic needs at work and in the community.
• Complete basic forms; interpret maps, schedules, simple charts, and graphs.

CSEA Metropolitan Region 2

Creedmoor Psychiatric Center 
79-25 Winchester Blvd., Bldg. 40, Rm. G-32, Queens Village, NY 11427 

Wednesdays | 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 
April 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6 & 13, 2026

SLMS Class Code: P_OE_R2_6391
 

Space is limited. Enroll by March 25, 2026.

Enroll through SLMS using the SLMS Class Code or use the application form.