All About AESL
In the United States, nearly half (47%) of immigrant adults have Limited English Proficiency (LEP). This can create significant barriers as they work to obtain employment and live quality lives. Among LEP adults:
- 29% report struggling to get or keep a job.
- 22% have found it difficult to report a crime or get help from the police.
- 24% report issues communicating with their child’s school.
In Memphis, it’s common for an elementary-aged child to translate for LEP adults in a variety of interactions with healthcare providers, landlords or property managers, service providers and more. Often, these children have been afforded English Language Learner (ELL) services at school and become more fluent in the language than their parents or other adults around them.
The good news is HopeWorks offers LEP adults the opportunity to become proficient English speakers – and the hope for job opportunities and quality of life that comes with it.
What is AESL?
HopeWorks’ Adult English as a Second Language program aims to help LEP adults learn to speak, write and communicate more proficiently in the English language. Classes are taught by certified teachers; offered all year; tailored for beginner, intermediate and advanced students; and available two days each week at varying times. The program is free for all participants.
What do students learn in the AESL program?
AESL students develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in English. They may also take advantage of digital literacy classes and training courses for specific job skills. But this program isn’t just to learn the language – HopeWorks also provides support for learning our culture. We help our adult participants understand the history and customs that will help them participate fully in society – a win for them and for Memphis.
Who participates in the AESL program?
The program is ideal for anyone who wants to improve their English proficiency – from those who speak little or no English at all to those who hope to improve more advanced skills, like reading and writing in the English language. Last year, more than 600 adults enrolled in AESL classes at HopeWorks!
When are AESL classes?
Classes are held two days per week on Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday.
- Morning class times: 9:30-11:30 a.m.
- Evening class times: 6-8 p.m.
- Limited virtual classes are also available on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
How can participants sign up for AESL classes?
Adults interested in enrolling in AESL classes should:
- Complete the class preference survey to choose the class level, times and locations they prefer.
- Complete the online registration form. This is sent to each individual by email after HopeWorks receives
the initial class preference survey. It takes approximately 20-30 minutes to complete. - Schedule an intake appointment. HopeWorks invites students to schedule their appointments once their
preferred class is available to accept new students. - Attend an intake appointment and complete a pre-test. These appointments are held once each month
and take about two hours to complete. The pre-test allows HopeWorks staff to ensure proper class
placement and evaluate each student’s needs. - Attend orientation. This is required for all new and returning students. This is where students will
receive their class assignments. - After these steps are complete, students can begin taking classes.
Looking for more information about AESL at HopeWorks? Click here to access the AESL program page on our website, which is available for translation into the language of your choice. You may also call us at 901-240-0171.