ESL programs offer students help with English, citizenship, and new career options
When Silvia Melendrez immigrated to the United States, she had a tough time finding a job. Back in Mexico, she had a steady career in office administration and accounting, but she found her lack of English proficiency held her back. Tulare Adult School’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program helped her build the skills she needed to get hired.
“I had a hard time because I didn’t speak a lot of English, it was hard to find a job,” she says. “That’s why I went to school, to learn another language.”
According to Dr. Larriann Torrez, director of Tulare Adult School, ESL programs offer more than just language lessons. Students also can prepare for U.S. citizenship, continue their education, learn a trade skill and start a new career.
“For me, it was very beneficial.”
Silvia Melendrez, Graduate of Tulare Adult School ESL Program
“Students have that opportunity to not only come and learn English, but really learn the skills needed to communicate out there in their everyday world,” says Dr. Torrez. “We really try to embed the workforce readiness skills into all of our curriculum, so that our students are not only signing up for an English class, they’re also gaining those reallife skills needed to be successful out in the community.”
Melendrez says going back to school wasn’t difficult for her: Enrollment was easy, class schedules were convenient, and teachers were readily available to help students. In addition, ESL courses are free and don’t require any prerequisites to enroll. Once they complete the program, students can get help navigating their next steps in education or career.
“For me, it was very beneficial because now I understand a little bit more and it’s good for helping (my kids) with homework or for a job,” says Melendrez, who also went on to earn her GED through the adult school. “When you’re with (people) and they only speak English, you don’t understand (and) you don’t feel like you’re part of the conversation. … But now I understand.”
While ESL classes have obvious benefits for students, they also benefit the entire community, according to Dr. Torrez.
“They’re part of the workforce, they’re part of the community, they’re an active member of society,” she says. “Some of them have transitioned from being on unemployment or public assistance and now they’re truly providing for their family.”
For more information on Tulare Adult School’s ESL program, visit www.tulareadultschool.net.
Written by Ann Stokes
| Regions | Classes |
|---|---|
| Central California | English as a Second Language |
