Classes

At In Her Presence, our courses are designed to meet participants where they are and help them take the next step forward. We organize offerings by English level so learners can grow at a pace that feels both challenging and achievable, while also providing workshops and topic-based courses that expand skills beyond language learning. Many classes are taught in English, but we also provide instruction in participants’ native languages, as well as interpretation and multilingual resources, to ensure access for all. By structuring our programs this way, we create a learning environment that is responsive, inclusive, and rooted in real goals.

Foundational English Program

Our primary program is a foundational English Program integrating workforce readiness and cultural navigation into the content.

Workshops & Specialty Courses

We also offer a wide range of courses and topic-specific workshops that respond to participant needs, from digital literacy and leadership, to parenting, financial skills, and more.

Our Foundational English Learning Program

At In Her Presence, our English classes go beyond grammar and vocabulary. They prepare participants for practical outcomes like navigating the workplace, using technology, managing daily responsibilities, and accessing community resources while also nurturing personal growth, including confidence, leadership, and a stronger sense of belonging. By combining skill-building with empowerment, our classes equip participants not just to communicate, but to thrive.

How it Works

Enrollment & Placement

When you sign up for our Foundational English Program, you’ll be tested and placed in a class that matches your English level. Each class runs only for a set number of weeks during a term and covers one half level of English content. You must begin with the start of a term.

Frequency & Location

We offer three different formats:

Standard – 2 days a week for 12 weeks (during Fall and Spring terms)
Accelerated – 3 days a week for 8 weeks (during Summer term)
Intensive – 5 days a week for 6 weeks (for the fastest progress)

You can also choose the format that works best for your life:

In Person – at Southern Maine Community College (SMCC)
Online – join live classes from home on a computer, tablet, or phone

Access Support

We recognize the barriers that some individuals have to attend classes. That is why we provide:

laptops/tablets for online attendance
transportation support from designated locations
babysitting coverage for some programming

Inquire when registering for more details.

Workshops & Specialty Courses

In addition to our core English program, In Her Presence offers a range of workshops and topic-based courses designed to meet the evolving needs of our community. These classes cover areas such as digital literacy, financial management, leadership development, parenting, wellness, and cultural exchange.

Curious about what’s ahead? Below are some of the courses on the books for the coming year.

Building to Career Success

This year-long course equips adult immigrants with the linguistic, cultural, and practical skills needed to move beyond survival work and toward meaningful, sustainable careers. Participants will gain the confidence and tools to pursue jobs that better fit their skills and aspirations—or to advance in their current roles—while also building the cultural awareness and workplace readiness needed for long-term success. Meets weekly on Fridays.

Sep 19 – Dec 12 Communication Skills and Cultural Expectations for the Workplace

Jan 16 – Mar 6 Job Search, Applications, Elevator Pitch and Interview Skills

Apr 17 – May 15 Individualized Projects with One on One Career Counseling

Visioning

This six-week course creates space for women to imagine what is possible, name their goals, and take meaningful steps toward their dreams. Through guided reflection, group discussion, and practical tools, participants will explore their own leadership potential and build the confidence to act. Designed especially for women navigating new opportunities in a new culture, the course emphasizes empowerment, vision, and the courage to move from ideas into action.

Speak Up

This four-week course helps participants refine their public speaking skills and develop confidence in their own voice and presence. Through practice, feedback, and supportive guidance, women will learn techniques to communicate clearly, engage an audience, and speak with assurance in professional, community, and personal settings. Speak Up creates a safe and encouraging space to strengthen both skill and confidence.

Paths Forward

This course is designed to help women gain clarity, confidence, and momentum in their personal and professional lives. Participants will identify their goals, recognize areas for growth, and practice strategies to overcome barriers with resilience. Through guided coaching, reflection, and the use of positive affirmations, women will cultivate leadership skills, strengthen their self-belief, and explore new possibilities for the future.

Know Your Rights

This new program will provide immigrants with practical knowledge to navigate U.S. systems with confidence. Participants will learn about their rights in areas such as immigration, employment, housing, and access to services, with guidance from trusted experts and community partners. The goal is to equip individuals and families with the information they need to protect themselves, make informed decisions, and feel empowered in their daily lives. Scheduling details will be shared soon.

Frances Warde Launch Class

The FW Launch Class supports new mothers to build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the United States. From understanding cultural expectations and navigating systems, to strengthening communication and leadership abilities, classes cover a wide range of life skills to help them prepare for their next phase.

Life Skills in the U.S.

Our Life Skills course helps immigrant women and families build confidence and independence by teaching essential concepts and practical skills for life in the United States. Classes cover everyday topics such as transportation, shopping, schedules, laws and safety, health systems, and technology—always with cultural context and real-world application. The course is interactive and participant-centered, creating space to ask questions, practice new skills, and share experiences. By combining language practice with practical knowledge, the Life Skills course equips participants to navigate daily life more easily and feel at home in their new community.

New Mothers Health Education

At the Frances Warde residency, we provide a health education program designed for women who have recently given birth. The sessions focus on both maternal health and newborn care, offering practical information, resources, and support during this important transition. By combining education with a welcoming, culturally responsive environment, the program helps new mothers feel confident in caring for themselves and their babies.

Yoga

At the Frances Warde residency, our yoga classes provide immigrant women with a welcoming space to strengthen body and mind while reducing stress. Sessions focus on gentle movement, breathing, and mindfulness, creating time for both wellness and community connection.

Splash & Speak

Splash & Speak is a water exercise and English practice class designed especially for senior women. Combining swimming and gentle movement with conversational English, the program promotes health, confidence, and connection in a supportive environment.

Conversation & Pronunciation

This weekly class gives participants the chance to practice everyday English in a supportive setting while focusing on pronunciation and clarity. Through guided discussions, role plays, and listening exercises, learners build confidence in speaking, improve their ability to be understood, and strengthen the communication skills they need for work, school, and daily life.

Get Involved Today

Beyond our classes, we help individuals tackle their goals and think big. You can help. Become a part of our Extended Team!