Next Step identifies key milestones in a student’s progress toward individual, educational and vocational goals.
Attaining life skills to navigate through everyday settings and challenges — everything from time management, communication, and organizational skills, to how to take a bus and budget for groceries
Progressing through required curriculum and accumulating high school credits
Graduating high school by earning an accredited diploma, or passing a high school equivalency exam (such as the GED)
Entering, succeeding in, and graduating from college with a certificate or degree
Completing vocational training with a certificate or license
Programs
Next Step Learning Center offers free education programs for youth and adults living in the Bay Area. Students must be at least 17 years old and be able to speak English at a basic level. There is no upper age-limit for our programs, and we welcome older students as well as youth.
The program is flexible, operates year-round, and has open entry dates. We work with you to set your individual schedule and make a personalized education plan. Daytime and evening hours are available for meeting with Next Step staff and tutors.
Study the way that works for you! Students are required to attend a tutoring session at least once per week. Homework assignments and online support are additional ways to independently progress in your studies throughout the week.
Literacy and Basic Skills Program
Build your reading, writing, math and life skills with the help of a one-on-one tutor or small group. Students in this program learn the basic skills needed to live and work, study for the GED, and complete high school assignments.
Learn to read for the first time or improve on the skills you already have
Build your skills to be ready for college or work
Open to English language learners who speak English at a basic level, but want to work on their reading and writing skills
High School Diploma Program
Earn an accredited high school diploma at your own pace. Our diploma program is open to students 17 years and older. There is no upper age limit and older students are encouraged!
Pick up where you left off in high school or start your high school studies for the first time
Work with an accredited teacher through our on-site partnership with Opportunity Academy, a program of the Alameda County Office of Education
Receive individual tutoring in subjects where you need support
Re-engage in high school with a full or part-time schedule
Please note that Next Step students must be at least 17 years of age and must not be currently enrolled in any other high school.
Click here to learn more about Opportunity Academy.
GED / High School Equivalency Program
Receive individual preparation for any of the high school equivalency tests (GED, HiSET, or CHSPE).
Next Step staff will assess your readiness and make a personal study plan with you
One-on-one tutoring, preparation materials and practice tests are available for each of the exam subjects
Once you are ready for the exam, Next Step will assist you in scheduling your test and award you a scholarship to cover testing fees
Tutoring is available online or in-person
The actual tests must be taken at a certified testing center
College Success Program
Do you dream of going to college? Are you curious about college certificate and degree options? Next Step guides you step-by-step through the enrollment process and provides ongoing academic tutoring and support throughout your college journey. Services include:
Individual college exploration and counseling
College Bridge classes to help you prepare academically and practically
College field trips and tours
Ongoing tutoring and academic planning
Financial planning, including financial aid and scholarship applications
An ACCESS Scholarship program to assist with tuition and supplies
The College Success program is open to Next Step students who successfully complete their diploma or high school equivalency with us.
Career Program
Job training and employment placement services are open to current students and graduates of Next Step’s High School Diploma, GED and College Success Programs.
Next Step students and graduates work with staff and volunteer mentors to explore vocational options and move into sustainable careers. Services include:
workplace skill building
career assessments
vocational counseling
resume building and interview practice
