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 Fall 2026 semester schedule?
- Registration for all students is Saturday, August 22nd, 10 am to 1 pm at Emerson.
- Classes are September 1 – December 17, 2026, with a 1-week break during Thanksgiving week.
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 Fall semester is August 22, 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
End-of-Semester Summary
by Rachel Ingram
The Emerson ESL Program had a wonderful Spring 2026 semester, continuing its mission of strengthening English skills while fostering a welcoming and close-knit community for individuals from across the globe. This semester, the program served more than 100 students representing countries including Chad, Greece, Iran, and many more.
The program was supported by 22 volunteer teachers and assistants who dedicated their time and energy to creating a warm and encouraging environment for students to grow in their understanding and use of the English language. Six class levels ranging from Basic to Level 4 were offered throughout the semester to meet students where they were in their learning journey, and both students and volunteers contributed to building a strong sense of community within the program.
As the semester came to a close, students had the opportunity to reflect on their experiences and progress through end-of-semester surveys. Many students reported improvements in their English reading, writing, and speaking skills and shared that they now feel more confident communicating in everyday situations such as at work, in stores, and within their communities. For many students, the challenges of immigrating to the United States and the current climate of the country made it difficult at times to show up consistently ready to learn. Despite this, students came each week with resilience and determination, while volunteers faithfully supported them throughout the semester.
To celebrate the semester, the program held an end-of-semester party where students and volunteers were recognized for their hard work and dedication. Students shared dishes from their home countries, continuing a tradition that reflects the diversity and community within the program. Trophies were awarded to students with the best attendance in each class, and certificates were presented to all students who participated this semester. Special recognition was also given to Fran Elin, who has taught the Level 1 class for the past 10 years, and her assistant, Ian Sachs, a church member and ESL steering committee member, for their decade of service to the program.
This semester also marked the pilot of a new English Conversation Group initiative for current students. The first session was held on April 11th in Westwood Hall and welcomed students from multiple class levels. The initiative will continue throughout the summer on May 23, June 13, and July 11 from 1:00-3:00 PM in Westwood Hall.
Looking ahead, registration for the Fall 2026 semester will take place on August 22nd from 10:00 AM-1:00 PM at Emerson. Fall classes will begin on September 1, 2026, and end on December 17, 2026, with a one-week break during Thanksgiving week.
Anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to reach out to ESL Coordinator Rachel Ingram. The program is always looking for volunteers who want to support adult English learners in the community.
How to contact us –
- 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.
SAVE THE DATE!