BRATTLEBORO-Vermont Adult Learning (VAL) is helping more Vermonters gain safe, legal access to the road through a growing partnership with the Vermont State Highway Safety Office’s Enhanced Driver Safety Program, in collaboration with the Windham County Sheriff’s Office.
VAL instructors have been working closely with Sgt. Chris Norton, Windham County Highway Safety Coordinator with the Vermont State Highway Safety Office’s behavioral change unit, and Michael Roj to deliver adult driver education using state-of-the-art driving simulators installed at VAL’s Windham County Learning Center at 113 Technology Drive in Brattleboro.
The program serves Vermonters 18 years and older and is uniquely designed to support multilingual learners. By integrating driver education with English Language Learning (ELL), participants build both driving knowledge and the language skills needed to understand road signs, motor vehicle laws, and highway safety expectations — all key components for success on the learner’s permit and road tests.
“This course removes barriers,” said Roj. “It supports safer drivers and safer roads while helping people gain independence.” Roj also noted that he is looking forward to expanding this same model statewide.
The curriculum and instructional approach were developed collaboratively by VAL instructors working alongside Norton and Roj. Instructional materials were adapted specifically for ELL students to ensure clarity, accessibility, and meaningful engagement.
Early outcomes show strong student participation and steady progress toward behind-the-wheel training and licensure.
“It is going so well,” said VAL ELL instructor Gloria (1)Cristelli. “Students are happy with what they have learned and feel confident to do the behind-the-wheel training next. What impressed me about the students was their expressions of thanks to Sergeant Norton and Instructor Roj.”
For more information, visit vtadultlearning.org.
This Town and Village item was submitted to The Commons.