Begun in 1977, Alachua County's ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) program offers intensive English instruction to students whose native language is not English.  Students who choose to attend the ESOL center schools are taught in small classes where oral communication is stressed.  Students have the chance to try out their knowledge of English in small, comfortable classes for part of the day.  For the remainder of the day, they attend regular classes with other students, allowing them to meet many different childr
ESOL centers are located at three (3) area schools: C.B. Parker Elementary School, Westwood Middle School, and Gainesville High School.  The ESOL teachers and their assistants have a great deal of experience in helping students become comfortable with the English language and American culture.  ESOL teachers are sensitive to the needs and differences of their students.

Students who do not choose to attend an ESOL center school may attend their school of zone where they are provided comprehensible instruction by a qualified teacher.  Teachers use ESOL strategies to ensure that students learn English as well as the class content.