English as a Second Language

**Note:  This mission is on pause during pandemic**

As of March 2022, Washtenaw Literacy has outlined three phases to re-engagement of the ESL Program.  They are currently at Phase One, which enables virtual and limited one-on-one in-person tutoring. 

ESL Community Tutoring, the categoring of tutoring at First Pres, is Phase Three.  Therefore,, we will await Washtenaw Literacy's announcement of Phase Three before restarting the First Pres program.

About Washtenaw Literacy's ESL Program

The English as a Second Language (ESL) Ministry is a collaboration with Washtenaw Literacy, designed to help learners of English as a second language develop the confidence, English speaking skills, and American cultural knowledge necessary to reach their goals.  To communicate effectively, ESL learners need information about cultural expectations/practices in addition to language.

The program serves adult ESL learners who have at least an intermediate knowledge of English.  Learners attend classes weekly on Tuesday afternoons for 1.5 hours, September through May. Tutoring groups focus on conversation/culture, writing practice, and pronunciation/presentation

We welcome ESL tutor volunteers from our church and other interested individuals in the community as an opportunity to be involved in this ministry.   Knowledge of a foreign language is not a requirement for the tutors, and additional training is available through Washtenaw Literacy.  Come and observe to see if this is a ministry you would enjoy!

Contact Ruth Primas, program coordinator if interested at ruthp@umich.edu.