October 3, 2025 – Info Cafe

English is considered the global language, or lingua franca, which means it is often used as a common language between speakers of different native languages in business, education, and international communication. Because of this, both children and adults around the world invest significant time and resources into mastering the language for many reasons, but particularly for better educational and professional opportunities. Learning English as a Second Language (ESL) or English as a Foreign Language (EFL) has become increasingly important in today’s interconnected world. According to the British Council in 2023, over 1.5 billion people globally are currently learning English, making it the most widely studied language on the planet. As English continues to dominate international media, science, and diplomacy, learning the language provides valuable advantages.

In the United States, the demand for English language learning continues to grow, reflecting our nation’s increasing diversity, especially among immigrant communities. According to a 2023 report by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately 5.1 million students in U.S. public schools were classified as English learners (ELs) in the 2021-2022 academic year. This represents about 10% of all students. These students speak a variety of native languages and come from diverse cultural backgrounds. Enrolling in English as a Second Language (ESL) programs helps them to improve their English proficiency and succeed academically. ESL programs are essential to helping them to succeed in school, access higher education, and participate fully in society. In addition to school-aged learners, many adults in the U.S. participate in community-based ESL classes offered by community colleges, libraries, and nonprofit organizations to improve their language skills for work or citizenship.

In Iowa, the percentage of English learners has also risen. According to the Iowa Department of Education in 2022, approximately 6.5% of Iowa’s public school students were identified as English language learners (ELLs) in recent years, with Spanish being the most common first language. But it is not limited to Spanish-speaking populations. Students come from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds, including Hispanic, African, Asian, and Eastern European communities, including children of immigrants and refugees who have settled in the state. Iowa has developed several ESL programs to support these learners, often working with local school districts to help students gain language skills, integrate into the school system, and prepare for success both academically and beyond the classroom. Many schools offer targeted ESL instruction, bilingual support staff, and resources to assist these students. Adult ESL programs are also available in many Iowa cities and rural areas.

Narrowing in locally, Scott County, has also seen a growing number of English learners due to increasing diversity in the region. Based on 2023 data from the Davenport Community School District, roughly 7–8% of students in the district are enrolled in ESL programs. The growing need for ESL instruction has led to the further development of these programs that focus on integrating language development with academic content. These programs help non-native English-speaking students to transition into mainstream classes through developing their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Eastern Iowa Community college (and other educational institutions in the Quad Cities) as well and local nonprofits in the area also offer adult ESL classes, supporting non-native speakers in improving their English for employment, education, and daily life through language acquisition and community integration. With targeted support, English learners in Scott County and beyond are gaining the tools they need to thrive.

Do you know someone who is learning English as a Second Language or perhaps someone who teaches ESL in the classroom? Maybe you’re just curious about ESL? Check out some of the FREE resources available to you at The Library. See our online catalog or ask a Librarian for more resources.