Thousands Turn to English as a Second Language

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It was almost impossible for Veronica Caldera to place her fast food order at restaurants that didn't offer service in Spanish.

Today, after several months of studying English full time, she says it's easy to place those orders—but more importantly—easy to help with the homework her kids bring back every day.

"When I go to meetings with their teachers, they still offer me the assistance of an interpreter, but now I understand what's being said," said a smiling Caldera in front of her classroom at Baldwin Park's Adult School, where she attends regularly.

There are thousands of students like Caldera who attend classes in Baldwin Park, Lynwood, South Gate and other cities in order to learn English and improve their opportunities in this country.

"Definitely, the word success is written in English; in Spanish, it may mean partial success," said Edgardo Moreno, a business consultant in Southern California. "Not learning the [English] language limits our personal growth. We know it's really necessary," he added.

Moreno's opinion is reflected in the large number of students taking these classes nationwide.

According to an official report from the Department of Education published in 2008, federal funds for adult education benefit more than a million students attending classes of English as a Second Language (ESL).

For Kevin Stewart, ESL instructor with Baldwin Park Adult and Community Education, the classes are important not only to learn a new way to communicate, but also to learn how to become fully part of this new country.

"The students not only learn English, they also become acculturated with the country they now live in," said Stewart. "Here, we also teach them about this country's history and traditions, and the cultural differences with their countries of origin."

One advantage of ESL classes is that students can enter year-round and the courses are affordable.

The three adult education schools in Lynwood, Baldwin Park and South Gate offer free classes, except for a registration fee of less than $20 for residents in these cities.

Before registering, students are asked to take a test to determine their language level and placement in classes.

At the South Gate Community Adult School, located at 3351 Firestone Boulevard, tests are available every weekday morning from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., and in the afternoon, from 5:45 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For more information, call 323-568-5700.

The Lynwood Community Adult School offers tests every weekday during working hours at 4050 Imperial Highway, and additional information is available at 310-604-3096.

At one of the locations for Baldwin Park Adult and Community Education, 4640 North Main Ave., tests are available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., and from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The information line is 626-939-4456.