Does the government have any special programs or services that help immigrants to learn English?

Question

I'm doing a presentation on helping immigrants learn English so that they can function more properly in an American society. I know there is a problem with immigrants not knowing enough English, but I was wondering if there were sufficient services provided by the government or states to assist them in learning our language? I've tried to look up policies and procedures for my state and area, but nothing is standing out to me, which makes me concerned. When immigrants become full citizens, does the government give any advice or information on learning Engish? Do some adult/continuing education centers have classes for immigrants?

I'm really needing some help on this. Any information or personal experience would be greatly appreciated on how the government helps immigrants learn our language, where they go for this service, if it's free to them or not, or if no such thing exists nationally.

Answer 1

Call your local high school district and ask.  If there is a division called adult ed, alternative or continuing ed, call one of them.  Also some community colleges have similar programs.

Answer 2

I don't think (at least didn't hear of one) there is a uniform federally mandated policy, but I did hear about these programs being funded locally (state, city, community). There are also ESL classes offered by civic organizations, ONGs, churches etc.

Just recently I was listening to a NPR (National Public Radio) report about some "battle" being fought somewhere in NE (Carolinas, VA?) about the efficiency of these programs, and funding and people's participation and the need to keep them running etc.-pros and cons.

I would suggest doing a search on NPR.org website.