North Georgia Technical College (NGTC) brought together students from four Northeast Georgia counties for its annual English as a Second Language (ESL) Celebration, a day filled with fellowship, food, and cultural exchange.
Students from Habersham, Rabun, Stephens, and White counties gathered on the Clarkesville campus to share stories, enjoy a meal, and celebrate their accomplishments in the classroom. The event recognized the dedication of adult learners working to master English and the diverse cultural perspectives they contribute to the community.
“Our students are the heart of this program,” said Shelby Ward, NGTC dean of adult education. “Today was all about celebrating their dedication to learning, their courage to grow, and the rich cultural backgrounds they bring to our classrooms.”
The celebration included faculty, students, and families from NGTC’s Adult Education program, which offers free ESL classes with flexible day and evening schedules. The program helps students strengthen reading, writing, and speaking skills for work, school, and everyday life — giving them the tools to pursue greater opportunities.
NGTC’s ESL classes are open to adult learners of all backgrounds. For many, the program not only improves language skills but also builds confidence and creates lasting friendships in a supportive environment.
