Businesses can help with English literacy

Commentary By Marisa Treviño

Every immigrant will have to learn to speak English. This is one point that is sure to be included in any comprehensive immigration reform bill, and it draws immediate consensus from all sides. Yet non-speakers face many barriers to doing so. This is a dilemma for immigrants who not only need to learn English to fulfill whatever criteria Congress might mandate, but also for those who want to speak English for work.

For one, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes aren't readily available. Adult educators across the country report that some classes have long waiting lists or the number of classes is shrinking because of cuts in state budgets.

Then there's the proficiency issue. The U.S. Department of Education reported that in 2006-07, only 39% of the 1.1 million people enrolled in state-administered ESL programs advanced to the next proficiency level. For many, learning the language is sidetracked by a lack of time because of employment and family responsibilities.

This is why businesses may offer the best solution, embracing a shared responsibility between employer and employee. A case in Dallas brings this point home. TV station WFAA found that hundreds of low-level commercial aircraft mechanics in Texas had the necessary skill set for the job, but they lacked the language skills to communicate with supervisors or to read repair manuals. The report prompted Congress to demand that by March, the Federal Aviation Administration require all mechanics to be proficient in English.

Though businesses benefit by employing English speakers for many reasons, a tax break might be just the push reluctant employers need to support ESL classes. Rep. Mike Honda, D-Calif., recently re-introduced legislation that would give businesses tax breaks if they offer ESL classes. For a good model to follow, the restaurant industry is credited with spearheading efforts to develop such classes onsite.

McDonald's created a 22-week ESL course dubbed English under the Arches that targets employees chosen for entry-level management positions. They take three hours of classes each week along with one hour of virtual class online. They are allowed to take the classes while on the clock, too. The company has plans to expand the successful program nationwide.

McDonald's has learned what many ESL programs already have confirmed: The will to learn English is there. Smart companies will follow suit. It's a win-win-win situation for employer, employee — and country.

Marisa Treviño, who lives in Dallas, writes a blog, Latina Lista

Posted at 12:16 AM/ET, July 24, 2009 in Business issues - Letters, Forum commentary, Immigration - Letters
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