ServiceNet Employees Graduate From ESOL Behavioral Health Training Course Pilot Program

Five ServiceNet employees recently graduated from the ESOL Behavioral Health Training Course, a new pilot program designed to support staff who speak English as a second language.

Over the past eight weeks, Greenfield Community College instructors worked with the students, providing over 100 hours of training in medication administration, communication, and workplace readiness. Participants also gained valuable skills in shift notetaking, email etiquette, de-escalation, and general English language support.

The course was developed specifically for relief staff to help them build skills and prepare for MAP (Medication Administration Program) certification. Employees who complete the paid course and pass MAP testing become eligible for a $2 per hour pay increase.

“We have so many fantastic employees, and we want to expand opportunities for them to grow and succeed with us,” said Kathleen Solois, ServiceNet’s chief human resource officer. “By offering this training, we’re working to remove barriers and create better access to important certifications like MAP, especially for staff who are building their English skills.”

The curriculum was created by ESOL and MAP instructors from Greenfield Community College and funded through a workforce training fund grant awarded to the MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board.

The pilot program began with relief staff, but ServiceNet aims to expand this opportunity to full-time employees who could benefit from additional ESL support as they prepare for MAP certification.