English as a Second Language

Zeenat K. made her family proud and inspired her grown son to return to college for his master's degree. Zeenat is East Indian, born in Kenya. "I was afraid to speak, " she recalls. "I thought people would laugh."

Five years later, Zeenat earned her GED and went on to take college courses, earning a certificate in accounting that allowed her to secure a good position with a large travel company in Seattle. "Now I speak to all kinds of people and everybody likes me!" she smiles. "I am so proud of Eastside Literacy!"

Our English as a Second Language (ESL) program serves adults in east King County, including the Snoqualmie Valley. More than 50 different classes for limited English speakers are offered at the Bellevue and Carnation offices, as well as at partner locations throughout the area. Each class is conducted by trained volunteer facilitators and meets once or twice a week.

ESL classes from beginning to intermediate focus on listening, speaking, reading and writing. Talk Time groups provide conversation practice.

Citizenship class helps students prepare for the U.S. Citizenship test and focuses on building civic and community involvement.

Students must pre-register and take an assessment to determine which class will best meet their needs.

To register for or learn more about groups meeting in Bellevue, Bothell, Issaquah, Kenmore, Kirkland, Shoreline or Redmond, contact Marci Williams at marciesl@hope-link.org or 425.643.1912, or Katie Brotten at
katieb@hope-link.org or 425.644.7908.

To register for or learn more about groups meeting in Carnation, Duvall, Fall City, North Bend, Snoqualmie or Woodinville, contact Katie Brotten at katieb@hope-link.org or 425.644.7908.