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Chinese immigrants in Oakland are disappointed by the Oakland School Board's recent decision to make drastic cuts to its adult education programs. Despite opposition from Chinese, Latino and African-American groups, the board voted on June 24 to cut its adult education funds by 83 percent--from $11,000,000 to $1,900,000--eliminating all ESL adult classes and laying off 120 ESL teachers.

Adult education has always been a great resource for new immigrants, reports the World Journal. Fu Menjiao, who came to the United States 10 years ago, went back to school after being laid off in hopes of improving her English and finding a better job. She also met a lot of friends during the five-day-a-week classes.