New workforce education benefit combines AI-powered English language learning with live instructor-led group lessons while also offering Spanish and 12 additional languages.
ALPHARETTA, Ga. — September 2026 — Ficus Education today announced the launch of Language Learning, expanding its workforce education benefits for independent Chick-fil-A Operators to include English as a Second Language (ESL) support for Team Members.
Designed for working adults, Language Learning combines flexible, self-paced English learning and AI-powered practice with live, instructor-led group lessons that provide opportunities for real conversation, feedback and practice. Team Members can also choose to learn Spanish or one of 12 additional languages.
For many Operators, language learning represents another opportunity to invest in Team Members who may not yet be pursuing a college degree while continuing to build a stronger, more connected workforce.
"We want education benefits to create meaningful opportunities for as many Team Members as possible, regardless of where they are starting,” said Doug Danowski, President of Ficus Education. “Adding Language Learning including ESL allows us to support Team Members who want to strengthen their English skills while creating another pathway for personal and professional growth. We were also intentional about combining flexible technology with live instruction, so learners have both the convenience of learning on their own schedule and opportunities for real human interaction.”
Why English Language Learning Matters for Restaurant Teams
Restaurant teams bring together people with different backgrounds, experiences and educational goals.
Many Team Members are interested in improving their English to build confidence at work, communicate more effectively with guests and coworkers, and prepare for future educational or career opportunities.
At the same time, English-speaking Team Members often want to learn Spanish or another language to better collaborate with coworkers and strengthen relationships across the restaurant.
By expanding beyond traditional college pathways, Ficus Education gives Operators another way to invest in more members of their team while supporting communication, engagement and professional growth.
Language Learning Designed for Working Adults
Language Learning is designed to make English language development accessible for Team Members balancing work, family and other responsibilities. The experience combines flexible technology with live instruction, giving learners the ability to build skills on their own schedules while also practicing with a real instructor and other learners.
The program combines:
- Self-paced English language learning that fits around work and life
- AI-powered practice personalized to each learner
- Live, instructor-led group lessons for conversation, feedback and real-world practice
- Spanish + 12 additional languages for Team Members interested in learning beyond English
By combining self-paced learning with live human interaction, Team Members can build practical communication skills and confidence while maintaining the flexibility needed for restaurant schedules.
Tested with Chick-fil-A Operators & Team Members
Before launching nationwide, Ficus Education piloted the program with a select group of independent Chick-fil-A Operators and Team Members.
The pilot allowed Ficus to evaluate the learner experience, gather feedback directly from participants and refine the program before expanding availability.
Feedback reinforced the importance of combining flexible digital learning with live instruction and helped shape a language learning experience designed specifically for working adults.
Four Education Pathways. One Benefit.
Language Learning, including ESL support and 13 additional languages, joins Ficus Education’s growing portfolio of workforce education benefits designed to meet Team Members at different stages of their learning journey.
Today, Ficus Education offers:
- Language Learning, plus Spanish and 12 additional languages
- GED®, ACT® and SAT® preparation through Kaplan
- More than 120 online associate, bachelor's and master's degrees through University of the Cumberlands
- Graduate certificates and preferred doctoral pricing through University of the Cumberlands
Whether a Team Member is learning English, preparing for a GED, earning a college degree or continuing their education, Operators can provide meaningful opportunities through one workforce education benefit.
"Our goal is simple," Danowski said. "We want every Team Member to have a pathway to learn, grow and reach their next opportunity. English language learning expands that mission by helping us serve even more people."
Workforce Education That Grows With Your Team
Ficus Education partners with independent Chick-fil-A Operators to deliver workforce education benefits that support recruitment, retention, leadership development and Team Member success.
The addition of Language Learning expands that mission by helping Operators invest in Team Members at more stages of their careers while strengthening communication and creating additional opportunities for growth.
Bring Language Learning to Your Restaurant
Learn how Ficus Education can help you successfully implement Language Learning for your Team Members.
Frequently Asked Questions