Alabama ranked second in the nation for percentage of growth among the foreign-born during this century’s first decade (Terrazas, 2011). Data from the 2010 U.S. Census shows the number of people in potential ESL populations increased in every state except Michigan (U.S. Census 2010). With this increasing need, it is more probable than ever before that an ESL instructor may be called upon to help develop a new ESL program in their community.
This session is a presentation and interactive discussion of how the presenter approached developing a new, community based, adult ESL program for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Birmingham, AL. The presentation will address the growing need for ESL programs. This will lead to a discussion of how the presenter found himself in the position of developing a new program. We will follow this with discussions about how to determine the resources that are available through personal, academic, and professional networks. The importance of determining of the needs, desires, and goals of the program’s supporters, students, and the ELL community will also be addressed. The session will conclude with a discussion on selecting and obtaining instructional materials; recruiting and training of volunteer teachers and supplementary personnel.