A recent article in the Washington Post discusses the effects of this tight economy on adult education.  The article specifically highlights the concerns of immigrant parents who have in the past or will in the future take classes for improving their English.  Fairfax County, the school system at the heart of this article, is facing a major budget shortfall and is looking to cut costs and trim back programs.  This leads us to an interesting question:  will it be beneficial to our community, our country to continue to offer subsidized programs to educate the parents of immigrants? I believe the answer is a resounding YES.  Our country was founded by immigrants who came looking for opportunity.  Not only do we have an historic obligation to offer programs that will help immigrants adjust and succeed in their new home, but we will be thankful in the future for our efforts.  In an ideal society all individuals are useful, contributing citizens who share the burden of caring for our children, senior adults, and disabled.  However, we know all too well that not all individuals find themselves in a position to contribute in a constructive manner.  Instead of throwing up road blocks for those who want to work hard, support their families, and enjoy the liberties that this country has to offer, let's open the doors for them and help them in any way we can.  By helping these parents acquire language proficiency, we are helping their children become more stable, active members of their communities.  Parents who once struggled with their new language and the ability to communicate with their kids, their kid's teachers, and their doctors, can now be a significant presence and influence in those areas.  Research shows that kids who feel like their parents are involved are more likely to succeed.  Don't we all want that for our children?