ESL HomeSt. James ESL
We help adult refugees and immigrants to learn English and become U.S. Citizens
Our Mission
Our mission is to promote an inclusive society and advance justice for refugees and immigrants through education, advocacy, and by helping the most isolated refugees and immigrants to learn English, become citizens and connect to community resources.
“-- Archbishop BrunettWhile we do not support illegal immigration we are committed to helping all persons in need regardless of their legal status...Our goal as a community of disciples is comprehensive immigration reform to provide legal pathways for family reunification, guest workers and those seeking citizenship.”
We will reach out to all persons in need, including immigrants, regardless of their legal status. This is nothing new. The Archdiocese of Seattle has a consistent and longstanding commitment to justice based on our belief in the dignity of all persons.
What's New
Comprehensive Immigration Reform Before End of 2009
Crossing Borders:
Migration, Theology & the Human Journey
Read more about this 8-week course on Catholic Social Teaching on Immigration
Literacy Americorps Postions have been filled
Bishops Continue Call for Immigration Reform
Read Bishop Wester's statement calling for U.S. immigration reform.
Stay Informed
Get the latest news impacting refugees and immigrants, learn the issues surrounding immigration.
Be an ESL Tutor
Tutor a refugee or immigrant in English language or Citizenship.
Support Refugees & Immigrants
How does online shopping benefit immigrants and refugees in King County?
About St. James ESL
The St. James English as a Second Language Program (SJESL) is a 501(c)(3), non-sectarian, volunteer and community-based organization that provides free English instruction and Citizenship assistance to low-income adult refugees and immigrants in Seattle and King County, Washington. Founded in 1975 with one tutor and one Vietnamese student, SJESL has grown to serve students from 37 countries in all parts of the world. In 2004-2005, 120 volunteers provided 150 students with 8,000 hours of English instruction.
ESL Advisory Board
Fawziah Al-Hlaly
Robin Bruchas
Sherry Feng
Jon Gass
Christina Greene
Rahul Gupta
Chris Mercado
Ana Mikel
Joyce Mork-O'Brien
Alex Perepechko
Joe Varano
Samantha Welte
Catch up with St. James ESL...
Find out what's been happening with the St. James ESL Program.