Grace United Methodist Church ESL Program

Who We Are

The Grace United Methodist Church English as a Second Language (ESL) Program exists to help adults in our community develop confidence in speaking, understanding, reading, and writing English in a welcoming and supportive environment. Our classes serve students from many different countries, cultures, and backgrounds who share a common goal of improving their English for everyday life, work, education, and community involvement. Classes are offered in multiple proficiency levels, allowing students to learn at a pace that matches their current skills while encouraging steady growth throughout the semester. Beyond language instruction, our program fosters friendships, cultural understanding, and a genuine sense of belonging. Every student is treated with dignity, respect, and encouragement. At Grace, we believe learning English can open doors to new opportunities and stronger connections within our community. As a ministry of hospitality and service, we strive to reflect Christ's love by creating a place where every student feels welcomed, valued, and supported on their learning journey. Our volunteer teachers and teacher aides are the heart of the program. Whether leading a classroom, facilitating small-group conversations, or simply offering encouragement, each volunteer plays an important role in helping students gain practical language skills and the confidence to use them in everyday life. Together, we are building more than English skills—we are building community, one conversation at a time.

What We Do

Our ESL program is about much more than teaching English. It is an opportunity to build meaningful relationships, encourage confidence, and create a welcoming community where people from many cultures can learn, grow, and feel at home. Every class is a chance to make a lasting difference in someone's life. Whether you are an experienced educator or simply have a passion for helping others learn, we will provide guidance, resources, and support every step of the way. You do not have to be an expert—we believe that kindness, patience, and a willingness to serve are the qualities that matter most.

Details

Phone (703) 361-7800
Contact Heather Mergler