I used to teach ESL in the city-funded program, and it definitely helps people moved towards entering the job market, thus paying taxes, being able to communicate with their kids' teachers, etc. Also, these classes are where the immigrants learn they can actually talk with a social worker about domestic violence, mental health, immunization, etc.
In other words, this is a great way for the city to shoot itself in the foot.
On The Huge NYC Budget Disaster: Adult Literacy Programs
I used to teach ESL in the city-funded program, and it definitely helps people moved towards entering the job market, thus paying taxes, being able to communicate with their kids' teachers, etc. Also, these classes are where the immigrants learn they can actually talk with a social worker about domestic violence, mental health, immunization, etc.
In other words, this is a great way for the city to shoot itself in the foot.