MCAEL is the Hub of the Coalition

Who We Are

MCAEL is the coordinating entity for adult English language learning in Montgomery County. We maintain and grow a complex system of approximately 60 ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) programs, providing grant funding, professional development, and system-wide advocacy to make English classes accessible and affordable for learners throughout the community.


English language learning opportunities are essential for individuals, families, and our community overall. For the estimated 143,000 adults in Montgomery County who self-identify as being able to speak English less than “very well,” learning English can open doors to education, medical care, crucial resources, and jobs – bolstering the strength of our region.

What We Do



CAPACITY BUILDING: Increasing Access to High-Quality Instruction

  • Community Grants

    Each year, MCAEL awards grants to support adult English language learning programs in Montgomery County, with funds provided by the Montgomery County Government. The grants both sustain and expand existing programs and help establish new programs, with the goal of increasing the availability and quality of English language instruction. Grant funding decisions are made by a volunteer Grant Review Panel, organized by MCAEL and made up of a diverse group of community members. 



  • Professional Development

    MCAEL provides free professional development opportunities for program administrators and instructors throughout Montgomery County to support staff and ensure quality instruction. We also recruit and train new instructors. 

  • Community Learning Groups

    Responding to a need for English classes in communities that lack learning opportunities, MCAEL developed Community Learning Groups (CLGs), nine-week starter classes provided through partnerships with local schools, community centers, religious institutions, and businesses. The CLG model includes training new instructors, many of whom are members of the same community they serve. 

  • Data Analysis

    MCAEL collects, analyzes, and maps data from adult ESOL programs in the county to illustrate coalition work and impact. Our comprehensive, interactive StoryMap gives an overview of the adult ESOL landscape, helping MCAEL and coalition partners to identify areas that most need attention. 

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT: Education, Advocacy, & Community

  • Education

    Using data and stories, MCAEL educates and engages the public on the power of adult English language learning to transform individual lives and the impact that adult English classes have on the health and economic well-being of our county.


  • Community

    To ensure that we are addressing the needs, goals, and lived experience of current and potential learners, MCAEL has intentionally created welcoming, structured spaces for shared ideas and input:


    • The MCAEL Advisory Group (MAG), made up of ESOL administrators and instructors, provides regular input on programming to ensure that we are responding to the current needs of programs, instructors, and learners.

    • MCAEL's Learner Leadership Group (LLG) elevates learner voices so that their ideas, goals, and experiences are reflected in MCAEL’s network programming and advocacy.

    • MCAEL builds strong connections through in-person and online convenings, meetings, and conferences for ESOL programs and the county.

  • Advocacy

    MCAEL works closely with the Montgomery County Government, businesses, schools, and local organizations to advocate for the needs of the coalition and the people we serve.