Our School
Our goal to provide English language learning to anyone who seeks to improve their English skills, regardless of the ability to pay. We build community and friendships in our classrooms as well. We offer classes face-to-face in our Denver location and are beginning classes in Centennial in October 2023 and Aurora in January 2024. We are continually searching for local partnerships to support our students as they navigate life here in the Denver community.
History
The history of the English Learning Center can be traced back 40 years to the Adult Learning Source (ALS), a school established to provide literacy, GED, and ESL instruction to adult residents of the Baker neighborhood of Denver. When an economic downturn in 2006 forced ALS to end its program, two of the volunteer teachers, Bud Demko and Laura Fishman, found a way to continue to provide an ESL program under the name Central Denver Language School (CDLS). CDLS started with no furniture, no teaching materials, and about 30 students. The program survived only through the generosity of organizations and several teachers who donated money and materials. The surplus auctions at the Federal Center provided our furniture.
From 2006 to 2012, CDLS grew from 30 students to over 70 students. Operated entirely by volunteers, the school developed
the framework and expertise for managing the growing program. In 2012 the school moved to the Evanston Center near the
University of Denver, and for the first time offered classes in real classrooms.
In early 2015, the school was incorporated as a Colorado nonprofit organization under the name English Language Center and received 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. ELC has continued with an all-volunteer teaching staff. and was able to employ a part- time administrator in 2014 and a part-time Director in 2018.
Passionate Teachers
Peer Learning
Celebrated Learning
Learning Support
Community
Class End Party
