Services
English as a Second Language Program (ESL Program)
The English as a Second Language (ESL) program at the Esperanza Center is unique because we have a flexible program schedule for volunteers and students, while providing an excellent service. Our informal, drop-in sessions offer small-group and one-on-one teaching, and our formal courses provide structured, leveled classes by semester. We also have a media lab allowing our clients to learn English through technology.
Informal Class Sessions: Daily, by semester
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM - Tuesday and Thursday
1:30 PM – 3:30 PM - Tuesday and Thursday
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Formal Classes: Beginner Level of English Proficiency, by semester
- Beginner 1: Monday & Wednesday 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
- Beginner 2: Tuesday & Thursday 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
- Beginner 2: Tuesday & Thursday 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Computer Classes, by semester
- Tuesday
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Citizenship Classes
The Esperanza Center holds low-cost Citizenship Classes to help permanent residents become U.S. citizens. We started our first class in 2010. These classes are being offered through a partnership with Baltimore City Community College and are taught by professional ESOL teachers.
The classes have rolling admission, so a student can enter at any time during the session and then continue as they like into the next ongoing sessions. We have students from all over the world. The students study U.S. History and Government, plus have mock interviews, all in preparation for the 3 types of examinations they have to pass.
Classes are offered every Thursday from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
We are very happy to be able to offer this wonderful service!
Are you interested in volunteering to teach?
You do not need to know Spanish.
- Teach English informally in small groups or one-on-one
- Help our students improve speaking and listening skills
- Use the media lab to teach English or computer literacy
- Other volunteer projects are possible, according to program need and/or volunteer interest
- Internships encouraged in both teaching and program administration
We offer training six times a year help prepare our volunteers for teaching in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program. The training is free; please click here for the training flyer. You must register to attend. Select your training date and click a link below to register:
Please print the following documents before attending:
1. ESL Program Schedule, Fall 2012 to Summer 2013
2. Volunteer Application
3. ESL Commitment Form
4. PowerPoint Presentation
5. Lesson Plan Template
6. Volunteer Information Handout
7. Topical Curriculum Compilation
8. Ability by skill according to level
9. What to teach by proficiency level
10. Suggestions for Volunteer-Teachers
For ESL program information please contact Diana Siemer:
By email at esperanzainfo@cc-md.org
By phone at 443.825.3425
- Extension 2 is for Spanish-speaking students
- Extension 3 is for English-speaking students
- Extension 4 is for general information and for Volunteer-Teachers
