English as a Second Language

Our classes are called HOPE, which stands for Helping Others Practice English. Our goal is to help students learn practical conversation skills and make meaningful connections.

We are followers of Jesus. We want to obey Jesus because we believe he is God. In the Bible, Jesus tells us to love and welcome our neighbors. You are our neighbor! We care about you and want to help you learn English and be successful in America. 

Our English teachers are trained volunteers. From September to May we have two semesters of English classes for adults. Classes are once a week for two hours. Our classes focus on conversation, learning to understand and speak English. We have beginner to advanced classes and students are encouraged to start any time.

Classes are held at four locations around the city of Erie, some meet during the day and some at night. Check back for dates and times!


CLASS INFORMATION


Registration


Evening Classes

First Alliance Church

Childcare is available for ages 2–12.

Date: weekly on Tuesdays
Time: 7–9pm
Place: 2939 Zimmerly Road, Erie, PA 16506
Room:
F200 (FAC Youth Center)

English class levels: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and Advanced.

Fall Semester (2024):

September 17 – January 21
No class December 21 or 31

Spring Semester (2025):

January 28 – May 13
No class April 15


Daytime Classes

Vietnamese Alliance Church

Date: weekly on Tuesdays
Time: 9:30–11:30am
Place: 722 E 6th St, Erie, PA 16507

English class levels: 0, 1, 3

Grandview Alliance Church

Childcare is available for ages 0–6.

Date: weekly on Thursdays
Time: 9:30–11:30am
Place: 1102 E Gore Rd | Erie, PA 16504

English class levels: 0, 1, 2, 4, Advanced

McKinley Elementary School

Children’s program with tutoring for ages 6–12.

Date: weekly on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday
Time: TBD
Place: 933 E 22nd St | Erie, PA 16503
Room:
Library

English class levels: 0, 1, Intermediate


EVENTS


HOPE ESL Training

First Alliance Church | 2939 Zimmerly Road, Erie, PA 16506

COMING SUMMER 2025

Don’t miss our two-day ESL training with HOPE! If you have a heart for missions or serving others, this training covers everything you need to know to teach English to adult internationals. Interested and current volunteers will benefit from this ESL Teacher Training, which introduces practical English techniques applicable to all experience levels. You do not need to speak a foreign language or be a professional teacher to attend this training. To become a certified English as a Second Language volunteer, you only need to speak English, love Jesus, and love people! Register by August 16.


HOPE Camp

Edinboro Camp | 12940 Fry Rd, Edinboro, PA 16412

COMING FALL 2025


Coming Soon

  • Sewing

  • Citizenship Prep

  • Driving class (passing the permit class)


GET CONNECTED


Want to learn more?

If you are interested in more information about HOPE, fill out the form below to get in touch with our HOPE ministry leader, Amy McCullough.
amccullough@facerie.org | 814-833-9862 x241