Free English classes offered by SFCC provide new opportunities for residents
Santa Fe Community College is offering a free 14 week English as a Second Language session beginning January 26, 2026, with registration tied to mandatory orientation sessions in mid January. The program expands local access to language instruction, includes evening options and free childcare for parents, and may affect workforce readiness and civic participation in Los Alamos County.
Santa Fe Community College will offer a free 14 week English as a Second Language session running January 26 to May 7, 2026. New students must attend an orientation that includes testing, placement and registration. Classes will be held in person at the SFCC Main Campus and at Sweeney Elementary School.
Orientation sessions are scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. with no late arrivals accepted on Monday January 12, Tuesday January 13 and Wednesday January 14. Orientations are limited to 30 participants and only future students may be present, additional guests will not be permitted in the orientation area. The SFCC Main Campus is located at 6401 Richards Avenue.
Classes meet twice a week on either Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays depending on placement. Morning and evening classes will be available at the SFCC Main Campus, and evening classes will be offered at Sweeney Elementary School. Free childcare for children ages four to 12 will be available for evening students at Sweeney Elementary School. Students are expected to attend classes twice a week and space is limited.
For Los Alamos County residents these classes lower common barriers to adult education by removing tuition costs and offering childcare during evening sessions. Expanded English instruction can improve access to local jobs, county services and civic engagement, including participation in public meetings and understanding electoral information. The limited orientation capacity, however, creates an administrative bottleneck that could leave motivated learners waiting if demand is high. Prospective students who cannot attend orientation dates should contact the program office early to understand options.
SFCC encourages interested community members to follow the program Facebook page for updates. For more information residents may call 505 428 1329 or email olga.rees@sfcc.edu. Additional program details are available at https://www.sfcc.edu/english-second-language/ and https://www.sfcc.edu/programa-de-ingles-como-segundo-idioma/. SFCC will be closed for winter break from Saturday December 20, 2025 through Sunday January 4, 2026.
