Sagging economy boosts English language class enrollment

Immigrants who have suffered in the present economy are trying to improve their language skills. They know this will help them find and keep a job. But with budget cuts, some of these classes are being cut. - - Donna Poisl

More immigrants look to improve their language skills, educators are finding.

By CINDY CARCAMO, THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

The sinking economy has spurred demand for English classes, while at the same time cuts in education budgets have left some of the programs without classrooms, education officials say.

While there has always been a high demand for English classes, recently more students are calling and walking up to registration counters at local community colleges throughout the county, hoping to sign up for one of the hundreds of classes offered during summer sessions, according to education officials.

Many of these students are immigrants motivated to learn English because of a downward-spiraling economy that may have left them without a competitive edge for advancement or simply without a job.
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