The Power Program began in 1986 to help adult students unable to get to the evening ESL classes at Waltham High School. Four classes with 40 students began to study English in separate buildings throughout the city because there was no single place where all four classes could gather.

Through Mayor William Stanley's intervention a permanent site was obtained for a Downtown Learning Center at 25 Lexington Street so students could easily reach the Power Program. Now over 200 students are enrolled, with a large waiting list.

The Power Program, which is non-profit, currently offers programs of varying difficulty taught by qualified teachers. These classes include 10 ESL classes for English, two GED classes for high school equivalency certificate, a Citizenship class and some mini-classes for more individualized instruction in a small group setting.

Volunteers help by tutoring students on a one-to-one basis. These volunteers are especially trained in scheduled workshops to teach English to those learning our language. Some students are just beginning to learn English while others want to advance to higher levels. Other tutors are available for instruction in basic reading and math skills for those needing such assistance.

Classes run weekdays, both in the morning and evening, to accommodate student work schedules. Through testing, adult students are placed in varying levels of proficiency so that they can make progress easily. Other mini-classes with small numbers help students get extra attention.

Reflecting the diversity of cultures and languages in Waltham, some 50 countries are represented among the 200 students. Certainly a challenge for all, both students and teachers.