Frequently Asked Questions

 Program Information

What is ESL?
How long is the English as a Second Language program?
Are there classes at other schools?
Are there classes for U.S. Citizenship?

Are there computer classes?
Do the teachers speak Spanish?
Can I take the BART to school?

Registration

Where can I register for English classes?
How do I register for English classes?
When can I register for English classes?
How much do English classes cost?
When can I start going to class?
What is the Waiting List?
How long is the Waiting List?
Can I take two classes?

Class information

Do I have to come to school everyday?
Can I come to school late?
Can I leave class early?
Can I bring my child to class with me?
Do I have to buy a book?

What is ESL?

 ESL is English as a Second Language.
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How long is the English as a Second Language program?

Our program is approximately 15 weeks long, three times a year.  Our program includes eight levels.  They are:  Beginning Literacy, Beginning Low, Beginning High, Intermediate Low 1, Intermediate Low 2, Intermediate High, Advanced Low, and Advanced High. 

With consistent attendance and consistent study, the program can be completed, from Beginning Literacy through Advanced High, in 2 to 3 years.  The time needed to complete the program will vary on individual needs and challenges.
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Are there classes at other schools?

Yes.  We have classes at several elementary schools in the area.  Some offer babysitting for parents with school age children also.
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Are there classes for U.S. Citizenship?

Yes.  You can register or request more information on class times and locations in the ESL Placement office.
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Are there computer classes?

Yes.  You can register or request more information on class times and locations in the ESL Placement office.
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Do the teachers speak Spanish?

Some teachers and staff speak a little Spanish.  We prefer to speak in English because we have students from many countries around the world.  We are not able to translate or speak in every language.
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Can I take the BART to school?

Yes.  Loma Vista is within walking distance from the BART station.  Take the BART to the Concord station.   Leave the station, walking past the parking garage.  Turn right and continue walking down the street to the stop sign.  At the stop sign, turn left.  This is Mt. Diablo Street.  Walk down Mt. Diablo Street until San Carlos Avenue.  Turn right on San Carlos Avenue.  You will see the school.
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Where can I register for English classes?

You can register in our ESL Placement Office. 
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How do I register for English classes?

To register for classes you need to come to our ESL Placement Office.  You will fill out some information forms.  Then you will write the alphabet or some sentences in English, answer some questions from the office workers, and if you understand enough English you will also take a reading test.  The more English you know will make the registration time longer.
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When can I register for English classes?

You can register in our Placement office on Mondays and Tuesdays, from 9:00-12:30p.m. and 6:15-8:15p.m.
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How much do English classes cost?

English classes at Loma Vista are free.
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When can I start going to class?

After you register in our Placement Office, you will be assigned a level.  If there is space available in your level at the time you want to come to school, you can start classes the same day or the following day.  If there is no space available in your level, you will be placed on a waiting list.  When a space becomes available you will be notified to come back to school.
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What is the Waiting List?

If your class is full, we will put your name on a list of people who want to be in school.  You will have to wait to come to school until there is space available.
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How long is the Waiting List?

The number of people on the list is different for each level and the amount of time you will have to wait is different for each class.  We cannot give you an accurate answer.
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Can I take two classes?

Yes.  You can take two classes together, such as a morning and an afternoon class, or an afternoon and an evening class.  But you cannot take a morning and an evening class.  This is because we want to keep space in the evening available to the students who work during the day.
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Do I have to come to school everyday?

It is a good idea to come to school everyday for the entire class period.  You will learn English better and faster if you are consistent in your attendance. 

If you cannot come to school everyday, you should talk to your teacher.  Your teacher can help you.
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Can I come to school late?

Yes.  It is better to come to school on time, but if you are working late or have an appointment, please come to school as soon as you can.
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Can I leave class early?

Yes, if it is necessary.  You need to tell your teacher before class or at break time that you will be leaving early.  Please do not leave in the last 15 or 20 minutes of class, it is very disruptive.
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Can I bring my child to class with me?

No.  Every person in the classroom needs to be a registered adult student or visitor.  If you don’t have a babysitter, tell the teacher you will be back the next day.
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Do I have to buy a book?

No.  Your teacher may ask you to buy a book, to help you learn and study outside of class.  But it is not required.
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