A partnership between Peninsula College and the YMCA of Sequim looks to help non-English speakers learn key language skills.
Starting in January, Peninsula College English as a Second Language (ESL) classes will be offered at the YMCA of Sequim, 610 N. Fifth Ave., while also offering free childcare.
“Many times, students can’t make it to class because of a lack of childcare,” Peninsula College President Dr. Suzy Ames said.
“The YMCA’s generosity removes this common barrier. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Y to serve our community.”
ESL Classes and childcare will be offered at the YMCA beginning Wednesday, Jan. 4. All levels of English proficiency are welcome.
Cost for classes is $25 per quarter, and tuition assistance is available.
While parents are learning, on-site Play Care will be available for infants and children up to 11 years old. Children ages 12 and older may use all available areas of the YMCA, including the racquetball court and the pool.
The YMCA will work with ESL students to set up memberships if desired, program organizers noted.
“We’re very excited about this partnership with Peninsula College,” said Gail Sumpter, YMCA of Sequim branch executive. “It’s a great program and we hope it will make English language classes more accessible to the Sequim community.”
Peninsula College will offer ESL classes in four locations — Sequim, Port Angeles, Port Townsend and Forks, and Sequim — to reduce student travel time.
The college has also partnered with the Peninsula College Foundation to ensure ESL students can borrow a laptop at no cost, which they get to keep if they continue with another program at the college, college representatives said.
“Our students are eager to improve their English skills,” said Ames. “It helps them secure better jobs, communicate with their kids’ teachers, and feel more comfortable in our community. The college also offers job training programs embedded with ESL classes on our Port Angeles campus.”
Prospective students are encouraged to visit pencol.edu/ESL for more information or to register for classes.