Classes

Our English language classes are the very core of what we do at VMLC. Our eager students and dedicated volunteer teachers return day after day and semester after semester to help us fulfill our mission. All of our programs are offered from September (fall semester) through April (spring semester), and a month-long summer session in June. VMLC takes the same holidays as the Dallas Independent School District.

All non-native English speaking persons living in the Vickery Meadow and West Dallas neighborhoods (zip codes 75231 & 75212) who need English language assistance are eligible for our programs. If you are unsure whether you live in the serviced area, please call us at 214-265-5057.  Or, if you prefer, click here to fill out our feedback form.

Prospective students can enter our programs at any time during the school year if there is space available at the level they need. If there is no space available, prospective students must wait until the next registration date. Additional information is available upon request at both the North and West Campuses. Due to the overwhelming demand, we are not able to keep a waiting list, so registration occurs on a first come, first serve basis and must be performed in person at wither center. For directions to both campuses, please click here.

Programs offered:

Family English Literacy Program (FLP)
The FLP or Day Program is offered Monday through Thursday from 9:00am – 11:00am and 12:30pm – 2:30pm. Stay at home moms and those who work evenings primarily attend these classes. Classes are offered on four ESL levels with classroom and computer instruction. The Early Childhood Education Program is offered concurrently. While the adults are learning English in order to have a better life in this country, the children are preparing for elementary school and their education beyond.

Workforce English Literacy Program (WLP)
The WLP or Evening Program is offered Monday/Wednesday evenings and Tuesday/Thursday evenings from 7:00pm – 8:45pm. Students who work during the day primarily attend these classes. Classes include four ESL levels and Pre-GED, with classroom and computer instruction. This program does not offer a children’s component.

Early Childhood Education Program (ECEP)
The ECEP is provided at no cost for the 0-5 year old children of the adult learners enrolled in the FLP. The curriculum is designed to meet the unique educational needs of non-English speaking children. VMLC provides the only learning opportunity most of these children will have prior to entering elementary school. The teaching staff is bi-lingual, and many are current or former students of VMLC. All teachers are trained by the Children’s Program Director. Additional enrichment components for children and parents, such as Fun Fridays, No Boundaries, Read With Me and Curtains up on Literacy, expose students to new experiences and learning activities that can be recreated and expanded at home.

Empowerment Programs
VMLC believes that learning English is only the first step to a better life in this country. Cultural knowledge and confidence to use newly acquired English language skills are also needed to function productively in our society. Empowerment Programs provide seminars and field trips that enhance life skills and cultural understanding. VMLC also provides opportunities to develop leadership skills and confidence through activities such as our Peer Teacher Program, Adult Student Council, Computer Class and Job Skills Classes. Activity Clubs including Drama, Music, Art and Reading afford meaningful ways for students to develop fluency and knowledge.

Summer Fun
Summer classes are offered for adults and children in the mornings during the month of June. Each summer a central theme gives students an opportunity to express their language skills in new and meaningful ways, while developing critical life skills. Each week the classes focus on a different topic related to the overall theme. Summer readers and activity clubs also incorporate and reinforce the central theme. Past themes include Heroes, Transportation, Immigration and Discovery.

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