Our History

The blue decorative wave is playing the role of the opening book.

1994 - 2000

BEGINNING

Five women standing together, looking at the camera; the first students of the CSJ Learning Connection.

1994

S. Kathleen Carberry and S. Joan Devine welcomed the first five English-speaking participants from the Suffolk County Department of Labor, preparing for the High School Equivalency Test. Classes were held in an empty dormitory at the Academy of St. Joseph.

WELFARE REFORM

1996

Welfare reform decreased referrals from the Department of Labor. Local women requested English classes, and TLC adapted to meet this new community need.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

1999

The Brentwood Public School District invited TLC to join its Adult Continuing Education program. TLC became a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with a Board of Directors.

PROGRESS

2000

TLC moved to a larger space on the third floor of the Academy of St. Joseph elementary building, and S. Mary Theresa Donlon joined as teacher and assistant to S. Kathleen.

Circle with blue background containing an arrow pointing left (indicating previous action).

Circle with blue background containing an arrow pointing right (indicating next action).

2001 – 2017

EXPANSION

2001

TLC expanded into additional space to accommodate 230 students, with ongoing support from Brentwood District teachers.

CHANGES

2009

Following changes in Brentwood’s Adult Education program, TLC began managing its own data for state accountability in testing, attendance, and employment outcomes.

SIX CLASSROOMS

2011

TLC grew to six classrooms on the first floor, continuing to serve an increasing number of students.

GRANT

2013

A grant from JPMorgan Chase funded a fully equipped computer lab, and Smart Boards were introduced into classrooms.

NEW TEAM MEMBER

2017

S. Mary Theresa retired, and Denise Murray, a TLC teacher, became S. Kathleen Carberry's assistant.

2018 – Present

NEW LEADERSHIP

Denise Murray is receiving the torch from Sister Kathleen in a ceremonial handoff, symbolizing the passing of leadership and mentorship.

2018

S. Kathleen Carberry retired, and Denise Murray assumed leadership responsibilities.

25TH ANNIVERSARY

2019

TLC celebrated its 25th Anniversary.

COVID

2020

Classes continued remotely during COVID, then returned in person.

COVID

2024

In 2024, TLC moved into a newly renovated space previously occupied by Long Island University and later BOCES, welcoming 331 participants that year.

SOMETHING

2025

Students and Staff participated in the Third Annual Sprint into Spring 5k to show their support to The Sisters of St, Joseph's Garden Ministry.