ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)

The El Centro Adult Education Program has long recognized the interdependence of English language learning and continued education for economic fortitude. Founded in 1957, El Centro was among the first programs in the state to provide ESOL classes for adult immigrants.

El Centro is consistently rated in the very top tier of adult ESOL programs in the state. The program provides six levels of ESOL instruction from beginning to advanced, targeted math instruction for students in search of college education, distance learning for working adults with busy life schedules, and transition to college services.

Labouré Adult Education is a community that helps adult immigrants acclimate to the U.S. culture, develop English language proficiency, and build a future.

There are 5 levels of ESOL instruction offered, distance learning, and college and career counseling and guidance. The classes, taught by trained staff, are designed to help you meet your educational, personal, economic, and social goals.

Classes are free of charge. The program offers morning and evening classes.

Morning program

• 4 days a week, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  Class days vary depending on level of class

Evening program

• Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

The Haitian Multi-Service Center Adult Education program was founded in 1978 by members of the Haitian community in Dorchester. It is open to adults of all backgrounds, ages 18 and up. The program offers three levels of ESOL instruction.

Career guidance and support is also available for all students. ESOL classes are for any adults who want to improve their listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English. Students are assessed when they start the program to determine the appropriate starting level.

ESOL classes are offered during the day and in the evening. Most classes meet six to eight hours per week.

The English Transcultural Center was founded in 1990 by the Sisters of Charities of Nazareth to address the English Language needs of community members in the Brockton neighborhoods. The center offers morning and evening ESOL classes to those with little or no skill in speaking, reading, or writing English.

The center offers two levels of English, as well as enrichment and computer literacy classes. Level 1 is for the beginner student while Level 2 is for the slightly more advanced student. Case management is also provided to all current and former students and includes job search assistance as well as help with immigration and citizenship applications.

English Language Learning Academy (ELLA) provides English classes to North Shore community members. With a goal of empowering adults by increasing their employment opportunities and self-sufficiency, the ESOL classes include practical, dynamic instruction.

The Healthcare Bridge ESOL program is a contextualized 27-week course designed to help students who have a high intermediate understanding of English strengthen their English-speaking skills, as well as develop fundamental math, digital literacy, and systems navigation skills, with the goal of helping them to secure sustainable, fulfilling jobs in the healthcare field.     

Working in partnership with local healthcare providers, program staff support students in securing job opportunities upon completion of the training. 

Program graduates become qualified entry-level job candidates with English language fluency and a deep understanding of the healthcare industry.  

Qualification Checklist:

• Be an English language learner (Level 4 and up) 
• Possess a high school diploma from the student’s country of origin or the United States, or a General Education Development diploma (GED) 
• Complete the program application and interview/enrollment process
• Be 18 years of age or older

The Healthcare Bridge ESOL training is offered remotely three times a week (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays) from 5:30 to 8 p.m. utilizing digital tools including Zoom and WhatsApp.