Burbank Adult School – Integrated Education and Training (IET) ESL
Submitted By: Yanira Chavez
CAEP Staff/Partner
Website: https://basw.burbankusd.org/
Type of Practice: Learner Transition
Program Area(s): ESL / EL Civics / Citizenship, CTE / Workforce Prep / Pre-apprenticeship
Region: Los Angeles Basin
Consortia Involved: Los Angeles Regional Adult Education Consortium
The Program of Practice
Our data, staff experience, and student feedback indicated that many ESL students faced barriers transitioning to employment because language instruction and job skills training were offered separately. As a result, students often experienced extended time in ESL without clear career pathways. The purpose of our IET program is to address this gap by providing a coordinated model that allows students to build English language skills while developing workforce readiness.
The Response
IET program at Burbank Adult School intentionally addresses this problem by integrating ESL instruction with workforce preparation. ESL lessons are contextualized using workplace vocabulary, communication scenarios, and career-related tasks. ESL instructors collaborate with career training staff to align instruction and student outcomes. Students also receive workforce preparation support, including job readiness skills, goal setting, and transition guidance into employment, career technical education, or further education.
The Unique Features of the Program
A distinguishing feature of our program is its learner-centered and accelerated design. ESL students do not need to complete all levels of ESL before accessing career-focused content. Instead, they gain language skills while engaging in meaningful workforce preparation. This integrated approach increases student engagement, relevance of instruction, and persistence, particularly for working adult learners.
The Outcome
Our IET program has contributed to increased student persistence, improved confidence in workplace communication, and successful transitions to employment or further career training. Students report higher motivation and clearer career goals due to the direct connection between English instruction and real-world applications. Staff collect follow-up data on IET enrollment, completion, and job placement, documenting results in a centralized spreadsheet. Of the 38 IET students, 20 have successfully secured employment. Program success is measured by the percentage of students who transition into IET programs, complete their training, and obtain jobs. This data reflects stronger accountability, more defined career pathways, and enhanced workforce readiness, while also guiding continuous program improvement.