Students whose first language is not English that wish to improve their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills may wish to enroll in the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program. ESOL assists students with workforce preparation skills such as filling out job application forms and understanding job-specific vocabulary. Classes are offered on several levels, from literacy through academic. All entering students are tested and placed at the appropriate instructional level. Students are retested at regular intervals to measure progress.

Instructors address students' varying learning styles by using a number of instructional approaches including group discussion, lecture, video, and computer software. Classroom activities provide opportunities for students to benefit from structured lessons, interaction with others, and the practice of communication skills under an instructor's direction. A technology lab offers a more individualized learning experience allowing students to progress at their own pace using comprehensive computer and video programs.

Counseling is available to help students define and reach their educational goals. After completing the program, students generally achieve better employment opportunities or seek technical training or higher education.

Students who are interested in citizenship preparation are enrolled in regular ESOL classes, to help improve their English skills. 

CITIZENSHIP PREPARATION
Prepare for the citizenship test in one of two ways...
1. Enroll in regular classes for English language study. In the computer lab, you will study American history and government.
2. Study at home.
Free online citizenship lessons (Click Here)

Assessments
The Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment System (CASAS) is the assessment tool used with ESOL students. As part of the registration process, students will take both reading and listening tests to determine their level of functioning. Once assessed, they are placed in the appropriate level class. Students are retested at various times to determine progress and advance them to higher class levels. 

Besides CASAS, instructors also use other assessment tools to document the successful completion of skills necessary for American acculturation and employability.

Certificate of Completion
When you complete the English for Speakers of Other Languages program, you receive a Literacy Completion Point (LCP) Certificate of Achievement for each level attained.

ESOL Courses

• Adult English for Speakers of Other Languages (9900040) provides instruction for limited English proficient adults. Students learn workforce, life, and academic skills which are integrated into reading, writing, speaking, and listening formats. The course is divided into six levels:

1. Foundations;
2. Low Beginning;
3. High Beginning;
4. Low Intermediate;
5. High Intermediate;
6. Advanced

• Adult ESOL College and Career Readiness (9900051) is for advanced ESOL Students and provides instruction in secondary level English language skills. It is designed to prepare students for further education. Students are enrolled in this course based on placement test scores. 

Course Locations & Schedules

STC Sarasota (Main) Campus / Building 3
4748 Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL
941-924-1365 / Ext. 62462

• Day Classes
  Monday-Friday / 8:00am-11:00am & 11:30am-2:00pm
• Evening Classes
  Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday / 6:00pm-9:00pm

STC North Port Branch
4445 Career Lane, North Port, FL
941-257-2252

• Day Classes
  Monday-Friday / 8:00am-11:00am & 11:30am-2:00pm
• Evening Classes
  Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday / 6:00pm-9:00pm

Registration Information

STEP 1 (Students UNDER the age of 18):
The student must present a written referral from the district ESOL Supervisor that indicates the student was consulted by school staff regarding enrollment options.

STEP 2:
Follow standard registration procedures including:

• Must be 16 years of age and NOT enrolled in HS;
• Must provide photo ID with date of birth;
• Students who entered U.S. on student VISA are NOT eligible for the program;
• Requirement to be tested to determine level of English;
• A testing appointment will be made at the time of registration. Testing could take up to 2 hours, depending on student’s level of English.
• After testing, student will be notified by telephone or in person of the start date.
• Fees: $45.00 per semester / $10 parking for year

*NOTE: Some classes have waiting lists.

Registration is by APPOINTMENT Only.

Registration Office Hours
Monday-Thursday / 8:00am-12:00pm (noon)
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday / 5:00pm-7:30pm

Registration Fees
$45.00 per semester
$10.00 parking for the year