Investing in ESOL as an engine of social good

By Keith Mahoney, TBF Vice President of Public Affairs

At the Boston Foundation, we've always been aware of the vibrant immigrant communities that enrich our city. A report commissioned by the Latino Equity Fund at TBF in 2020, The ROI of ESOL: The Economic and Social Return on Investment for ESOL Programs in Greater Boston, highlighted a crucial issue that has only grown in importance. While this report is a few years old, its findings are prescient and, frankly, more urgent now than ever.

The report's core message is simple yet profound: investing in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs isn't just a social good; it's a smart economic strategy. It clearly demonstrates the tangible benefits for individuals, communities, and the broader economy of Greater Boston.

Here's why this 2020 report feels so vital in 2025:

1. The Enduring and Growing Demand for ESOL Services: The report from 2020 highlighted a significant gap between the supply and demand for ESOL services in Greater Boston, with a 20:1 ratio of need to available seats. Fast forward to 2025, and this problem hasn't magically disappeared. In fact, with continued immigration and the ongoing need for integration, the demand for English language proficiency has likely only intensified. We continue to see headlines about thousands of individuals waiting for ESOL classes across Massachusetts. This backlog isn't just an inconvenience; it's a barrier to economic advancement and community integration for countless individuals.

2. Bolstering Our Workforce in a Tight Labor Market: The 2020 report emphasized how ESOL proficiency leads to higher earnings and improved employment prospects for individuals. In 2025, with our current labor market challenges and an aging workforce, skilled workers are more valuable than ever. Immigrants are already a critical component of our labor force, filling essential roles across various sectors. By equipping them with strong English language skills, we're not only empowering individuals to access higher-paying jobs and contribute more to our tax base (the report found ESOL increased annual earnings by $2,400!), but we're also directly addressing workforce shortages and boosting overall economic productivity. The report estimated a 6% annual return for taxpayers from public investments in adult ESOL programs – a return we absolutely need to capitalize on today.

3. Beyond Economics: Civic Engagement and Social Cohesion: While the "ROI" in the title points to economic benefits, the report also underscored the social returns. It found that attending ESOL classes more than doubles rates of voter registration and increases civic engagement. In a complex and evolving society, fostering strong social cohesion and active participation from all residents is paramount. Language proficiency is a fundamental step toward deeper community involvement and understanding.

4. The Untapped Potential in Vocational and Workplace ESOL: The 2020 report specifically called out the dearth of vocational and workplace-focused ESOL programs. In 2025, with a greater focus on skills-based training and direct pathways to employment, the need for these specialized programs is even more critical. Connecting language learning directly to industry-specific vocabulary and workplace communication can rapidly integrate new arrivals into high-demand sectors, yielding immediate and substantial benefits for both individuals and employers.

5. A Call for Strategic Investment and Systemic Change: The 2020 report identified key areas for improvement within the ESOL system, including the need for more teacher professional development, better student support services, and improved data collection. These recommendations remain highly relevant. To truly unlock the full potential of ESOL, we need coordinated, strategic investments that address these systemic challenges. The idea of "Pay for Success" initiatives for ESOL, mentioned in related research, demonstrates a growing recognition of the measurable impact of these programs.

As we navigate the complexities of our current landscape, recognizing and acting on the profound benefits of investing in English language education for our immigrant communities is not just beneficial—it's essential for a thriving and inclusive future.