Costa Rican children during a break from English language class

The Office of English Language Programs creates and implements English language programs in specific regions and countries of the world. All programs are administered through local American Embassies or Consulates. Programs are supported in part by Regional English Language Officers (RELOs) and Program Specialists. Together the Office of English Language Programs, Embassies, RELOs and Program Specialists plan, conduct, support, and promote English Language programs sponsored by American Embassies or Consulates or host country institutions such as Ministries of Education and universities. Activities include the development of English teaching curricula, textbooks, and teacher training workshops.

The Office of English Language Program staff in Washington, D.C. provides academic expertise, advisory and consultative assistance, and materials resources worldwide. They also organize several exchange programs that send American academics overseas at the request of American Embassies or Consulates to conduct activities related to training, methodology, curriculum development, needs analysis, textbook development, program evaluation, and English for Specific Purposes (ESP).