Enrollment Open for English Language Classes

Area residents seeking English language skills can enroll now through East Central College’s Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program.

The English Language Acquisition (English as a Second Language) classes provide students with a working knowledge of English in preparation for citizenship tests, the workplace, additional education, and daily living.

The experienced instructors who teach English language classes provide students with reading, writing, listening and speaking skills, according to Alice Whalen, director of the AEL program.

“We know there are groups of community members in the Franklin and Phelps county areas who need to enhance their English language skills.” She said.

“Students are also looking to improve their English language skills for travel, social or employment purposes.”

Whalen noted that the students studying English will also participate in cultural and social activities in the community. Students take the class with a range of experience; some students need help preparing to enter college.

The classes are available during the day in Union, Rolla and Washington. Evening classes are held in Union and Rolla.

To find the times and locations of classes, as well as other services offered through the AEL program, visit www.eastcentral.edu/ael.

For more information about AEL, call 636-584-6533 or 844-ECC-4AEL (844-322-4235), or email ael@eastcentral.edu.

Fast-Track Programs

According to Whalen, students enrolled in English language classes could be eligible for recently announced workforce programs.

That includes Certified Nursing Assistant and Introduction to Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), which both will be taught at the ECC Union campus; and Maintenance Assistants (MA) certificate program courses that will be taught at the Rolla North site.

The Fast-Track classes begin in January 2021, so students must enroll quickly to complete the required AEL orientation prior to classes beginning. Local job centers will provide financial assistance for eligible students.