The ESU Colonial NC Branch supports English language learning and literacy throughout our community through grants and volunteer service.

Craven ESL Student accepts award and check during a presentation at Interfaith Refugee Ministries, Spring 2026
The ESL/English Speakers of Other Languages program within NC Public Schools instructs students from kindergarten through high school. Craven County Schools provides educational opportunities for students whose primary home language is not English as part of the district’s Title III services. They focus on listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills and have been recipients of Branch grants
The ESU Colonial NC Branch partners with Interfaith Refugee Ministries in support of their English as a Second Language (ESL) incentives. We supply volunteer TESOL tutors who offer group and one-on-one English language learning. Interfaith Refugee Ministries has been one of the recipients of the Colonial Branch grant.
We support Craven Literacy Council in their mission to improve literacy skills and empower local adults and families. They provide education in basic reading, computer literacy, and mathematical skills.
Craven Community College offers adults courses in English proficiency and Citizenship Exam Preparation. The ESL program gives non-native English speakers instruction in speaking, reading and writing.