About Our English Classes
Emerson’s “English as a Second Language” (ESL) Class Program provides free English classes to adult English language learners on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at Emerson Church. Classes are offered in two semesters: Fall (September – December) and Spring (January – May). Classes are taught by experienced volunteer teachers and teaching assistants.
For classes and registration information, download and share the Program Flyer with anyone who will benefit from improving their English.
What levels are offered?
Basic for those with little or no English, and progressive levels 1, 2, 3 and 4.
What is the Spring 2026 semester schedule?
- Registration for all students is January 10.
- Classes are January 20-April 30, 2026. (No classes March 11 and 13 for Spring Break.)
When are the classes?
Each class meets two evenings per week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at Emerson Unitarian Universalist Church, 1900 Bering Drive, Houston, TX, 77057.
Do you charge for your English classes?
No! All our English classes are free for all students. The only cost is $10.00 for the textbook; however, if a student is unable to afford this cost, the book will be free.
Registration Date for Spring semester is January 10, 2026
- ALL students must register in-person from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Emerson Church, 1900 Bering Drive, Houston.
- There is no online registration for this semester.
- Admission to a class will be on a space available basis.
- New students will get a placement evaluation to determine their class level when they register. We stress attendance as there is always a waitlist for students who want to attend our classes. If you do not attend classes regularly, we will cancel your registration.
Do you have questions about registration or volunteering?
- Call us at 713-782-0825 and leave your name and phone number.
- Email us at ESL@Emersonhouston.org
Program Coordinator, Rachel Ingram
The ESL Steering Committee is pleased to introduce the Program Coordinator, Rachel Ingram. A Colorado native, Rachel completed her undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice at the University of Alaska Anchorage, where she also played college basketball. After working for two years in child welfare in Florida, she enrolled at the University of Houston, where she’s currently pursuing a master’s degree in social work. In her free time, Rachel enjoys running, hiking, and spending time outdoors in any way she can.
Rachel adds this:
In my work with child welfare, I helped individuals and families access resources and opportunities they needed. That experience inspired me to pursue a master’s in social work. In my new role with Emerson’s ESL Program, I look forward to helping students gain the language skills they need to thrive in our community. I am thrilled to be able to contribute to this special program. Thank you all for welcoming me into this amazing church community that deeply values justice, equity, and inclusion.
Please join us in welcoming Rachel!
Class Photos
Our students are an enthusiastic group from around the world. These are photos from recent classes.
Volunteer Opportunities
Can you help us? You can easily become involved with this vibrant and rewarding outreach, which is run by a volunteer steering committee. We look forward to continued growth of the program and welcome you as a volunteer. Our program needs:
Contact Us
For more information about volunteer opportunities, our classes and student registration, please contact us by phone or email:
Phone: 713-782-0825 and leave your name and phone number.
Email: ESL@Emersonhouston.org
Reaching out to adults with limited English skills is one way we can fulfill our mission to “build a better world.” This work also honors the Unitarian Universalist values which guide us to protect the inherent worth and dignity of every person, work for justice, equity, compassion, and liberty for all. Come join us in sowing seeds of compassion in the world.