Learn English
Every New American who wants to learn English should have the opportunity to do so. Today, more than one million New Yorkers are Limited English Proficient (LEP). Providing access to English-for-Speakers-of-Other-Languages (ESOL) training throughout the state is vital to incorporating LEP individuals into our workforce and communities.
There are hundreds of free ESOL training classes hosted in public schools, government buildings, and places of worship and at community centers throughout the State. Some are run by trained teachers, others with volunteer tutors.
Along with these existing free classes, each ONA Opportunity Center provides ESOL training thereby dramatically expanding New Americans’ access to English-language instruction in our State. Blending a structured program of instruction with skilled instructors and technology will help newcomers learn English. Community volunteers will supplement in-class instruction with conversation practice.
We also encourage English-proficient New Yorkers to volunteer at the Office for New Americans Opportunity Centers to assist New Americans learn English and prepare for naturalization exams. Visit the Volunteer at an ONA Opportunity Center page to learn more about these opportunities.