news
FALL 2015
Next Step Turns 21!
Where Education Transforms Lives!
THE ORIGINAL DREAM…
Next Step Learning Center was founded in 1994
by three Sisters of the Holy Names who had
nothing but a dream, a modest amount of seed
money, and years of experience as educators or
community organizers in Oakland and beyond. In
their work with Oakland neighborhood people,
they had seen that too many Oakland youth and
adults were facing their future without even a high
school education. These families were consigned
to the margins of our society. The Sisters set
out to do what they could to help change this
debilitating reality.
The rest is history! Next Step has been a good
news story in Oakland for over two decades.
Since 1994, this “small but mighty” nonprofit
organization has provided life-transforming
educational programs for thousands of Oakland’s
most vulnerable families.
Hundreds of volunteers, too, have themselves
been transformed. Important bridges of respect
have been built between the low-income youth
and adults who come seeking to complete
their high school education—or just strengthen
their basic literacy skills—and the hundreds
of volunteers from across the Bay Area who
contribute their time and talents as weekly
volunteer tutors or technology supporters.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND IMPACT…LIVES
TRANSFORMED!
•More than 730 youth and adults in Oakland
have achieved full High School Equivalency
certification as a direct result of the academic
assistance and personal support they have
received at Next Step Learning Center.
Hundreds of others have gained important
academic and life skills.
•86 former high school dropouts have completed
at least a semester of college as a result of our
College Transition Program.
•In just the last two years, 64 of our students have
gained employment, participated in internships,
or completed job-training programs as a result
of our Workforce Connections Program.
•More than 300 Oakland/East Bay residents and
employees have served as one-to-one volunteer
tutors, providing important academic support
and encouragement for our students.
•A successful capital campaign was completed
in October 2010, resulting in a beautiful,
welcoming learning environment and doubling
program and office space.
•Next Step has finished every one of its first 20
years in the black!
Our Budget…
mission and growth over these first two decades.
We also thank each and every one of our students
throughout the years for being such inspiring people
of courage, determination, and endless potential.
We have every hope and belief that this very special
organization will continue to be an oasis and a beacon
of hope in Oakland. Thank you, each and every one!”
—Rosemary Delaney, SNJM and Cynthia Canning,
SNJM
RESOURCES FOR TRANSFORMATION
Here’s how we invest our resources:
This year’s operational budget is $660,000.
Fundraising
10%
Basic
Literacy
PREPARING FOR THE LEADERSHIP
TRANSITION
18%
High School
Equivalency
Administration
12%
Workforce
Connections
9%
Next Step’s Transition Committee and consultants,
J.R. Yeager and Mim Carlson, have been hard at
work preparing for our organization’s first leadership
transition in its 20-plus year history. All staff,
volunteers, and members of the Board were invited
to participate in a survey and share their views about
Next Step’s greatest strengths and anticipated
challenges. Major donors and other key constituents
were interviewed by phone or in person. Out of all of
this valuable information came a set of organizational
priorities for Next Step over the next couple of years
and a job description for a new Executive Director
33%
College
Transition
18%
The Future…
“TO EVERYTHING THERE IS A SEASON…”
At the end of the 2015 calendar year, Sisters Cynthia
Canning and Rosemary Delaney, two of the three
Co-Founders of Next Step, will step down from their
roles as Co-Directors for the past 21 years, entrusting
this very special organization to the next generation of
leadership.
“We are profoundly grateful for the
privilege of being part of Next Step
Learning Center—this magical place where
lives are transformed in lasting ways, one
person at a time, one day at a time. We
have been surrounded and supported
by amazingly dedicated and generous
partners: our very committed Board of
Directors, our talented and dedicated staff
and large pool of volunteers, our financial
supporters, our Advisory Board members,
and the Sisters of the Holy Names—all of
whom have played a key role in Next Step’s
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The Job Announcement has now been widely
disseminated and the actual search is in process with
a goal of hiring our next leader prior to Thanksgiving.
This should allow a few weeks of overlap with the
current Co-Directors in December. To access the
Announcement, visit Next Step’s website at
www.nextsteplc.org
Volunteer/Staff Appreciation Dinner guests are all smiles!
Next Step Learning Center
Your Support Can Help Keep the Mission Alive
over the next two years,
we need to raise an additional $126,000
beyond LAST year’s expenses.
This year’s
projected budget
shows a
10% increase.
800,000
700,000
$660,000
Next year’s
projected budget
shows an additional
increase of 10%.
$600,000
600,000
500,000
$726,000
2014–2015
2015–2016
2016–2017
MATCHING GRANT OPPORTUNITY!
On April 10 we received word that Next Step had been
awarded a challenge grant in the amount of $20,000
from the Anonymous Fund at the East Bay Community
Foundation. This grant is for a Donor Challenge Campaign!
We hope you will help us exceed expectations by making a
special gift to Next Step before September 30, the official
end of this campaign!
FALL 2015 News
3
Stories of Determination and Success!
Ricky’s Story
“I dropped out of school in
the tenth grade because I
felt like it was too hard and I
lived far away from my school.
Fortunately, a family member
found Next Step Learning
Center. I thought it was a good idea to get a GED.
The tutors at Next Step have been very helpful. I think
if anyone does not have their GED that Next Step
Learning Center is a good program.
With the help of Next Step Learning Center, I have
turned into a focused young man with serious goals for
my future. The help I have received has given me great
hope in achieving these goals. Ever since I walked in
the door as a 17 year old kid, I felt that Next Step has
been devoted to see me succeed in life. I still feel this
devotion now as a 21 year old young man who has
improved drastically as a student and as a person.”
Ricky earned his GED through Next Step and has
participated in our College Transition Program,
including completing the ATLAS Program at College
of Alameda, where he was the top student in his
cohort and one of the few with perfect attendance.
After a few months of looking for work, he secured
a job at Home Depot in Colma, where he is now
employed full time. His boss and co-workers admire
him and his hard work.
Samantha’s Story
“While in the GED program at
Next Step I was encouraged
and pushed beyond what I
thought I was capable of. I
did not always succeed the
first time around, but when I
wanted to give up or lost steam somebody at Next
Step knew just what to say to keep me going. I took
that with me into my first semester at Merritt and was
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able to push through the hard spots and come out on
the other side successful.”
Samantha successfully completed her first semester
of college and has a part-time job at a local school.
Chris’s Story
“Next Step
Learning Center
has really helped
me take my life in
the right direction.
Five years ago
my story was
completely different and I was not in a positive crowd.
Today my life is future focused and I surround myself
with positive people with future goals as well.”
Chris earned his GED and continues to participate in
our College Transition Program, all the while working
four days a week at Berkeley City Club and caring for
his young daughter.
Nathaniel’s Story
“It’s great to have my GED, but
I found I also need certification
and/or a degree to turn my
entertainment experience into
a career. Next Step helped me
go to a place I never thought I
could reach. With a lot of much
needed help, I am getting A’s and B’s in college. Next
Step is a place that can help you get back on track.”
Traditional school was always a struggle for Nathaniel,
but at Next Step he learned what he was capable
of! He earned his GED and is now attending Laney
College, excelling in his classes, and aiming for an
A.A. in Media Communications.
Next Step Learning Center
Inezy’s Journey to High School
Equivalency
“Hold fast to dreams…”
—Langston Hughes
My name is Inezy
Williams and I had been
at Next Step for almost
5 years preparing to get
my GED. I took the GED
in 2013 and missed it
by 2 points. Not only
did I not pass, but they
were changing the test
in 2014 to all computer
so I could not take my points with me. But I was
preparing myself to do the computer GED. Then I
found out that the computer test wasn't successful in
many people passing, so Next Step told me about the
HISET test. I was so excited to hear about the written
test. I had come too far to quit and I wanted my High
School Equivalency Certificate so badly. Next Step
signed me up to take the test in San Jose in March.
I was also going through a trying time. My mother
was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer which had spread
everywhere. She was brought home on Hospice and
I was scared to leave her side. But on March 17, I
went to San Jose to take the test. I took science and
math. That day was so hard because my mind wasn't
on the test. But all the studying and help from my
tutors (Randi Voorhies and Jane Gabel) prepared me
enough to pass. The HiSET test is an advantageous
option for people trying to get their high school
equivalency. I knew I wasn't going to stop till I got it.
I got my High School Equivalency Certificate in May. I
got a really good score, too. If anyone is not confident
about the GED, this test is the way to go. I thank God
for Next Step Learning Center because they helped
me through my whole transition to achieve all of my
goals. I did it! Thank you Next Step.”
Some young women and men contact Next
Step at age 17 and say, without a great deal of
understanding, that they want to “get their GED.” For
some of these young people, when they turn 18 they
are confronted with life issues: housing, employment,
personal and family issues not easily or quickly
resolved. With minimal support resources, some drift
away from Next Step. Step for a time. It is always
good news when one of these individuals is able
to get life back in balance and return to Next Step
and their educational and life goals. They are always
welcomed back!
UPDATE: In addition to her college classes, Inezy is
now interning at the Berkeley Drop-In Center and
working part-time at “Reaching Out to Others” day
care.
FALL 2015 News
Four of our recent High School Equivalency (HSE)
graduates wandered away from Next Step for 1 year
(Jamar), 3 years (Silvia), 7 years off and on (Michael),
and 17 years (Lionna). Due to their spirit of resilience
and their initial experience of Next Step’s culture of
openness and caring, they made the phone call to
talk with Peggy about returning. The need for time
away from Next Step is also sometimes a reality with
older students. Geneva initially enrolled in 2011 when
she was 20 years old. After almost one year of regular
attendance, Geneva needed time to manage some
life issues, which precluded attendance at Next Step
for about 2.5 years. She re-enrolled in 2015 at age
23 and earned her HSE Certificate within 3 months.
LaKeshia initially enrolled at Next Step in January,
2006 when she was 30 years old. Her strong initial
focus weakened after awhile and life started going
downhill, which led to time away from NSLC for about
7 years. In February, 2014, LaKeshia re-enrolled with a
strong resolve to earn GED certification. Working with
great determination and commitment for one solid
year, she earned her HSE Certificate in March 2015.
These 6 women and men who now range in age
from 19 to 39 are proud HSE graduates due to their
continued resolve and untiring resiliency to realize
their dream. See these graduates’ photos on page 6.
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Congrats, Next Step
High School Equivalency Graduates!
Lionna
Bassam
Lache
Silvia
Michael
Kalima
Inezy
SteVen
Samantha
Quinton
Marshay
Jose
Yasmine’e
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Alan
Zahur
William
LaKeshia
David
GENEVA
Next Step Learning Center
Workforce Connections Workshop Series
Pre-Employment Workshops
Terri Jones, Human Resources Director at the
East Bay Regional Center, has been a key
supporter of Next Step for many years, having
served both as a member of the Board of
Directors and as a volunteer tutor. More recently,
we asked Terri to share her HR experience
with Next Step students who are seeking
employment assistance from our Workforce
Connections Program. Terri and Richa Pokhrel,
Next Step’s Workforce Connections Coordinator,
have teamed up this year to offer a series of preemployment workshops to help students think
about their job goals and prepare themselves to
be taken seriously when they apply. Staff member
Peggy Presley has also participated. Students
have learned about developing effective
resumes, practicing interview techniques, and what it
means to be part of a team in a work environment. In
the process, students are learning about themselves,
about their talents and abilities, and about what
makes a good employee.
The most recent workshop focused on “Application
Writing.” Six students from all different job
backgrounds participated. Terri provided individual
Alaina and Vernail enjoy one-on-one interviewing
practice with Terri and Richa.
feedback for each student, indicating her/his strengths
and what could be improved. The session was very
interactive, as students asked lots of questions
and talked with each other. Terri has a welcoming
personality, a great wit and sense of humor, and
knows how facilitate well! All the students left with
smiles on their faces and asked when Terri was going
to return. In the words of one student Janaice, “It
was very fun and helpful! I love Terri’s personality and
would love to work with her again.” Another student,
Amori, said, “It’s fun and helps you gain
more knowledge about the workforce
and how to find a job. Terri is sweet and
has a great personality!”
Terri gives tips on filling out successful job applications
FALL 2015 News
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Next Step’s Access Scholarships
Making A World of Difference for Our College Students!
Going to college—even to more affordable community colleges—is expensive! Just obtaining the books and
other supplies required for specific courses can add up to hundreds of dollars. In an effort to ensure that every
Next Step student who enrolls in college has the opportunity to begin her/his college adventure with the books,
supplies, and access to public transportation needed, we launched our ACCESS Scholarship Program to provide
just that—access to post secondary education! Each semester, students who fulfill the program’s requirements
are eligible to apply for up to $500 in scholarship support. We are pleased to announce that The Joseph and
Mercedes McMicking Foundation has just awarded Next Step a grant in the amount of $7,500.00 to support our
ACCESS Scholarship Program!
In the words of our college-enrolled students: excerpts from Summer 2015 Scholarship request essays:
ALAN
29 YEARS OLD
“Besides achieving a
personal goal by getting
a medical degree, going
to school will help me
give back to the people
that have done so much
for me: my parents. By
getting a higher education
I have the potential to
earn more and that way I could help my parents. Over
the last two years I’ve seen that their strength and
health has been deteriorating and now only one of
my parents is working, I would love to help them with
more but the amount I’m making now does not allow
me to give as much as I want to. They have given me
so much and now it’s time to give back. I appreciate
the support I receive from Next Step as I pursue my
goals.”
IRVING
20 YEARS OLD
“One of my instructors
said that I have changed
since I took a course from
her last semester (Fall
2014) and that there is
something different about
me. I do not know what
that is but I assume that I
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am more open to discussions instead of sitting in class
quietly. The instructor for three of my classes helped
me a lot throughout this semester to fully understand
the concepts and he even complimented me on my
critical thinking skills and said that I am getting really
good at it. There is always room for improvement and
I hope in the summer and fall 2015 semester that I
shall improve even more.”
SYLVIA
19 YEARS OLD
“My main goal in life is
to succeed—to succeed
in whatever I want to do.
That is why education
is important, because
education is the key to
success. I went and got
my GED, completed
phlebotomy school, and
now I want to start community college and get a job
as a phlebotomist. Growing up, I never thought that
I would drop out of high school. Unfortunately, life
takes its course and what’s what happened. So with
the support of my parents, I went back to school to
get my GED. I’m glad that I did, because having a
GED gives me more options in life. Now I am able
to start a career in the medical field like I’ve always
wanted.”
Next Step Learning Center
ZAHRA
20 YEARS OLD
“My future plan is not
so sure at the moment
because there are so many
things that I want to do,
but one thing I know is
that I want to give back,
stand up against cruelty
of all kinds and make this
place better for the next generation. I want to see a
better future for my kids and theirs. Going to school
and doing research about the environment made
me feel more like my peers and I are responsible for
the earth and the creatures on it. In my geography
class I learned a lot about our world and now I’m
more aware about the pollution and the affects it
has on us and our environment. I want to see people
and animals coexist in harmony and have the world
balanced. Thank you to Next Step for being there for
me the whole way.”
ANTOINETTA
27 YRS OLD
“I have gained sophomore
status at Berkeley City
College with the support
of Next Step and my
mission is to become a
certified psychologist
to serve a purpose by
mentoring and counseling
young women with a background of abuse. My
goal is to inspire young women to tell their stories,
which not only will help them but also other young
women going through the same thing. As a young
African American who came from a single parent
home and an impoverished community, trying to
fulfill my dreams has sometimes felt impossible.
However, with the support from the staff at Next Step
Learning Center and the Access Scholarship Program,
it was made possible. They offered me unlimited
support and encouragement, which really built more
confidence within me.”
NEXT STEP STUDENT TO BE PUBLISHED!
Congratulations to Next Step graduate and success story Michael S.
Smith, III! After many years of determined struggle to earn his High
School Equivalency, Michael has done that and more. While still working
toward his GED, Michael completed the ATLAS Program at College of
Alameda, where he had a record of perfect attendance, as well as the sixweek Cooking for Health Academy class sponsored by Alameda County
Nutrition Services, making his way to class each week to learn something
new. Now, thanks to all of his good efforts and optimistic spirit, Michael is a
full-time warehouse employee at the ABB Optical Group in Alameda.
On top of these many accomplishments, Michael is about to become a published writer! This spring, with
the encouragement and support of Next Step staff member Lee Goodman-Gargagliano, he submitted
an article to The Change Agent, a biannual magazine for adult educators and learners published by
the New England Literacy Resource Center. The magazine’s mission is to provide a low-cost teaching
resource that features writings by adult learners and inspires adult educators and learners to make civic
participation and social justice part of their teaching and learning. Each issue explores a different theme,
and the September issue will be Celebrations! Michael’s submission, entitled “Graduation and Blessings”
was accepted for publication and we all look forward to our autographed copy!
FALL 2015 News
9
WORKSHOPS FOR MATH AND
LANGUAGE ARTS TUTORS
by Lee Goodman-Gargagliano, HSE Coordinator
To support the transition from the GED to
HiSET, Next Step recently hosted workshops
for Math and Language Arts tutors. The math
workshops were held in May, and the Language
Arts workshops were held in July. All were very
well attended and tutors participated actively.
High School Equivalency Coordinator, Lee
Goodman-Gargagliano shared programmatic
updates about the HiSET test as well as general
information including how the test is scored and
changes we can anticipate to the writing test.
Tutors then reviewed the structure and content
on the specific subject test that they tutor in. The
highlight of the workshop was volunteer tutors
o
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having the opportunity to meet each other and
to exchange ideas and information about their
experiences working with Next Step’s students.
Tutors exchanged best practices with each other
and with Next Step staff to help address some of
the recurring challenges. Some of the excellent
suggestions tutors had for each other included
preparing an editing checklist for students to
revise their own work and reminding students
to read the directions and questions with extra
care. The workshop was also an opportunity
to reflect on the idea that the skills tutors are
working on with students go beyond high school
equivalency to support students’ future education
and employment pursuits as well as enriching their
everyday lives. We plan on offering additional
workshops in Social Studies and Science in the fall.
E-MAIL ADDRESSES WANTED!
We’d love to be able to communicate with you more quickly
when we have news we think you’d like to know! For example, we
now have a one-page monthly e-newsletter that highlights some
special activity or accomplishment. Please send us your email
address at nextsteplc@earthlink.net—or just fill in your email on
the enclosed donation envelope. We promise not to overdo it!
Next Step Learning Center
Congratulations to Nicholas!
by Jennie Emard, College
Transition Coordinator
Nicholas Adams has been
attending Laney College
continuously since joining
the NSLC college program
in spring 2011. In the course
of 3 1/2 years Nick has earned three Certificates of
Achievement: one in Refrigeration Technology, a
second in Residential and Light Commercial Heating,
Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC
& R) and a third in Commercial HVAC systems.
One may ask how it could possibly take so long to
complete three certificates at community college…
Most certificates of achievement ask for a maximum
of 30 units. To earn these specific certificates Nicholas
had to complete 52.5 units. He also took additional
pre-requisite courses and completed general education
courses toward his goal of earning the Associate
Degree in Environmental Control Technology. All
together, Nick has taken a grand total of 76 units.
Translated, this means hours and hours of work in
and outside of the classroom that qualify him to seek
employment as a refrigeration technician, heating,
ventilation, and air conditioning technician, sales
engineer, equipment and system installer, parts person,
operations and maintenance technician, building
engineer, controls technician, and energy specialist.
To complete training for this fast growing and
specialized field required motivation, patience and
perseverance. Nick has worked part-time at Costco
most of the time he has been in school; he overcame
personal challenges, has been a pillar of strength for
his family, and has overcome health issues to become
eligible to apply to apprentice programs for various
unions. His hard work has paid off and as of August
2015 Nick has been offered an internship with the
Honeywell Corporation in their Industrial Automation
and Control Department. Currently he is completing
the paperwork required to accept this position which
he has truly earned with all of his hard work!
Next Step College Students
as Volunteer Tutors
by Jennie Emard
In order to qualify
for the Access
Scholarship each
semester, continuing
Zadok mentors Laureen in
pre-Algebra class assignments. college students
must complete two
hours of community service for Next Step. Often
these two hours are spent tutoring HSE students or
fellow college students. For the tutor, this opportunity
provides a chance to give back to Next Step and
continue to feel involved with our organization. It
contributes to their self-esteem, demonstrates their
progress to themselves and others and strengthens
their resumes for future opportunities. Our HSE
graduates all express a desire to help others as they
FALL 2015 News
have been helped, and the opportunity to tutor others
following in their footsteps is an immediate, tangible
way for them to do so.
For tutees, the benefit is multi-faceted. We have an
excellent pool of regular tutors at NSLC—but the
college program tutors enhance this pool in many
ways. First, HSE students get an opportunity to
receive tutoring while meeting someone who was
recently in their shoes and has succeeded. They get
an opportunity to talk about how the college student
attained his or her HSE, stayed motivated, and why
they chose to go to college. More and more, our
college students add to our pool of tutors as people
our tutees can relate to on a personal level and find to
be inspiring as examples of successful students who
overcame similar obstacles.
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Meet Our Newest Staff Member
by Kay Thompson,
Development/
Administrative Assistant
On the morning of my
interview with Sister Rosemary
and Sister Cynthia, I
immediately felt comfortable
at Next Step. Before my
interview, I had about ten
minutes to sit in the front room
and watch as students came in for the morning session.
The thing that struck me most during that time was how
comfortable and welcoming the center is to everyone.
I watched as students greeted the staff and each other,
and several students even greeted me as they walked
into the building. During that brief time, I could already
tell that Next Step was a special and inviting place,
where students felt acknowledged and appreciated.
As I reflect on my first few months at Next Step, I
continue to feel an overwhelming gratitude for the
students, staff, and volunteers that help to make the
center such a wonderful and unique place. One of the
amazing things about Next Step is its open door policy
for all students. Over the past twenty years, Next Step
has welcomed students from all backgrounds and has
remained open to them through years of hard work and
struggle. Many students re-enroll after taking time off
to work or to focus on other obligations. Some of these
students have been a part of the Next Step community
for several years and have worked towards their goals,
no matter how insurmountable they may seem.
From the beginning, Next Step’s mission has always
been to strengthen Oakland families and communities.
Twenty years ago, Sister Rosemary and Sister Cynthia
spoke to West Oakland residents about the need for
personalized tutoring in basic literacy and High School
Equivalency Exam preparation. That need is still very
much present today, when the graduation rate for
Oakland Unified School District is only 60% and 32% of
Oakland youth live in households where the head has
less than a high school education.
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Over the past twenty years the co-directors, staff,
volunteers and students have created such a
supportive learning environment, and as a result, Next
Step has helped more than 700 students receive their
GED. Next Step will continue to play a vital role in
strengthening the families and communities that have
lived in Oakland for generations. It seems fitting that
as the city of Oakland rapidly grows and changes,
Next Step will also make a transition as it welcomes
a new Executive Director at the end of the year. The
sisters have worked to build a strong foundation in
anticipation of the transition to ensure that the change
is positive for students, staff and volunteers. During my
third week at Next Step, I participated in a meeting
with the transition consultants. It was an enlightening
experience to talk with other staff members about
our goals for the future. It became clear to me how
much everyone understands and values the spirit of
Next Step. Some words that the staff used to describe
the Next Step spirit included “warm,” “calm,”
“supportive,”and “welcoming.” I also spoke to many
volunteers during the staff and volunteer appreciation
dinner in May. Through these conversations, it became
obvious to me how the community genuinely wants
to uphold the compassionate environment that makes
Next Step so unique.
I am excited to be a part of the Next Step community
during such an important time. As the city of Oakland
continues to grow and change, it is vital that places
like Next Step support the students and families that
need assistance to achieve their educational and life
goals. Next Step meets students where they are and
understands the varied life experiences that bring
students to the center. Next step is a safe space
for students; it is a place where students can be
themselves and feel supported; and it is a place where
students can build the confidence necessary to grow
and to transform their lives.
Next Step Learning Center
Richa Says Farewell
by Richa Pokhrel, Workforce Connections
Coordinator/Database Manager.
In the next few weeks, I will be leaving Next Step.
This was not an easy decision for me to make
because I love working here. Most of you probably
know that there was a massive earthquake in Nepal
(where I am originally from) earlier this year. I will be
going there for a few months to spend time with my
family (especially my grandma) and help with the
rebuilding process. I am lucky because most of my
family is fine, but there are so many other people that
have been affected. So many homes, schools, health
centers, and national treasures were destroyed. It is
important for me to be there at this time and help
with rebuilding the country.
After more than two years working here, I have a
learned so much about myself and about how a
successful nonprofit works. The students, staff, and
tutors have taught me a lot about perseverance,
hard work, and selflessness. Being the Workforce
Coordinator is not easy at times, but the rewards
outweigh anything else. The best memories of my
time are ones involving students who have achieved
the thing they have strived for, whether it’s a job, acing
an interview, building a nice resume, learning how to
type better, finishing a training program, or just having
the confidence to pursue what they want. I have so
many fond memories that would fill up many pages.
Unfortunately, I cannot list them all, but here are some
of my highlights:
1.When Myla Wofford won a car last December.
We worked on an essay together and she was one
of seven chosen. At that time, she was working
two jobs and raising two teenagers. What I admire
most about her is her willingness to push forward
no matter the circumstances. She is optimistic
despite whatever may be happening in her life.
FALL 2015 News
Richa and Michael Smith celebrate his graduation
from College of Alameda’s ATLAS Program.
2.The confidence a student had when she told me
that she had never finished anything, but she was
able to get a through a culinary training program.
It was hard for this student, but she pushed
through and graduated! The smile on her face on
the day of graduation was so big and contagious!
3.After months of searching for a job, Nathaniel
Williams found one that he was very good at.
He had just finished the Bread Project training
and found work in a kitchen using the skills he
learned. Not only that, he made the decision to
join JobCorps as a way to better himself not just
personally, but also professionally.
Every student that I have spent time with has inspired
me in some way: your persistence to better yourself
in some way, your optimism for the future no matter
the circumstances, and your ability to show up and
learn. What I valued most was being able to be a
listening ear to anyone who needed to talk, establish
friendships, and provide a supportive environment.
I want to thank every one of you for making my time
here wonderful. I will never forget the memories I have
created.
13
Literacy Changes Lives!
Adult Learners Take Charge of Their Education
by Karen Matza, Reading/Language Arts Teacher
What if every day you had to do the one thing that
was the very hardest for you to do? For students with
learning disabilities, simply coming to school can
mean doing that ‘very hardest thing’ on a daily basis.
In elementary and middle school, Myla’s struggles
with reading were overlooked by teachers who did
not seem to have enough time to address each
individual student’s needs. By high school, Myla
felt depressed and faulted herself for her limited
academic progress, wondering “why can’t I push
myself… what is wrong with me?” Lacking the
necessary academic support and feeling like her
education “wasn’t going anywhere,” Myla left high
school.
Students come to Next Step with diverse academic
and life experiences. For many students, a negative
school experience coupled with difficult life
circumstances is what ultimately leads them to leave
school before obtaining a high school diploma.
The additional challenge of having an undiagnosed
reading disability may further reduce the likelihood
of staying in school. Fortunately, for students like
Myla, Next Step’s Basic Literacy (BL) program
offers a second chance for students to pursue their
educational goals.
Myla deserves to be proud of her success.
Designed for adults, the Wilson Reading System
(WRS) provides students with the tools they need
to “re-wire” the brain to make new connections
and associations. This is done through multisensory
learning, which supports the acquisition of skills and
strengthens long-term memory. In addition, students
are taught to apply a sophisticated coding system to
analyze the linguistic features of the English language.
As this coding system is internalized, the brain learns
to rapidly recognize and associate spelling patterns
with the sounds that make-up words; this efficient
processing system makes fluent reading possible.
BASIC LITERACY: DYSLEXIA AND THE
WILSON READING PROGRAM
While a small number of the students in the BL
program struggle with reading comprehension, the
majority of students in this program struggle with
the mechanics of reading—decoding or working
out words in reading and spelling. This type of
reading disability is generally referred to as dyslexia
(see sidebar). For students with dyslexia to become
proficient readers, they require intensive instruction
with a structured reading program such as the Wilson
Reading System.
14
DYSLEXIA
Dyslexia is a language-based learning
disability defined by an amalgam of symptoms,
including difficulty hearing the distinct sounds
that make up words, and matching these
sounds to letters. For fluent reading to take
place, students with dyslexia must re-train
their brains to master and internalize the
rules of sound and spelling patterns and
apply them with minimal conscious effort.
Next Step Learning Center
TAKING CHARGE
As adult learners,
students in the WRS
program are able to
take charge of their
own education and
reclaim the academic
opportunities and
experiences they
missed out on in
the past. Next Step
student Janaice
moved multiple
Janaice is excited about
times throughout
exploring the HSE level
her elementary and
materials.
middle school years,
and each move
necessitated a school transfer. By the time Janaice
reached high school, she was emotionally worn out
and frustrated at never having the consistent school
experience and academic support that would allow
her to solidify her skills in reading and math. Since
coming to Next Step at the age of 17, Janaice has
flourished, gaining confidence and self-assurance. As
an adult, she can guarantee for herself the stability
and consistency that were lacking in the past. An
exemplary student, Janaice continues to solidify her
reading skills through the WRS and advance through
the pre-HSE and HSE (High School Equivalency)
materials.
Alaina used to avoid reading
and now she loves it!
FALL 2015 News
WRS student Alaina
used to act out in
school deliberately
to get sent home to
avoid the increasingly
frustrating and
negative elementary
and middle school
experience. At Next
Step, Alaina has found
a supportive, tranquil
school environment
where she can
thrive, finally getting
the individualized
attention and intensive reading program she needs
to strengthen her skills. No longer trying to escape
school, Alaina’s receptive attitude, consistent effort
and active engagement are evidence that she has
embraced the educational path forward that Next
Step offers.
As for Myla, at Next Step she has found a program
where the efforts she puts forth yield real results;
instead of wondering why she is not pushing herself,
she can be proud of persevering every Monday and
Thursday morning when she takes time out of her
busy schedule—two jobs and the single mother of
teens—to come to school. As she moves through the
WRS program, Myla experiences the tangible benefits
of improved literacy and proves to herself that she has
inner drive live up to her true potential.
What if every day you had to do the one thing that
was the very hardest for you to do? At Next Step,
students participating in the WRS intensive program
have made the decision to confront what is most
challenging and address their reading disability
head on. With grace and intelligence, these students
demonstrate determination, perseverance and an
inspiring willingness to do whatever it takes to move
forward and achieve their goals.
RECIPE FOR SUCCESS
For any reading program to be effective, it
requires the hard work and dedication of the
students. Janaice, Alaina, and Myla share
certain qualities that underlie their continued,
measureable academic success with the
Wilson Reading System (WRS). Each student
demonstrates patience with herself and a
resolve to master skills regardless of the
time, effort, repetition, or review necessary.
Each is focused during lessons and actively
employs the strategies she has learned. Each
comes to school with a positive attitude and
expresses an enthusiasm and eagerness to
learn. The exemplary work habits and attitudes
demonstrated by these three women inspire us all.
15
CELEBRATORY EVENING HONORING OUR STUDENTS
Introductory remarks by Lee Goodman-Gargagliano
It is such a pleasure to gather here tonight to recognize our
fabulous, dedicated and tireless students for all of their incredible
work to better themselves through education. It is an honor to do
so in front of some of the people who have accompanied them on
this journey—family, friends, tutors.
To the students: you all are here today because it wasn’t easy, and we
are proud of you because it wasn’t easy. To go back to school as an
adult comes with an additional set of challenges—challenges which
I—admittedly—only know the edges of; challenges that sometimes
knock you down, and yet, you have all had the fortitude and the
strength and the support—in one fashion or another—to pick yourselves
back up—re-enrolling, re-focusing and re-energizing yourselves.
Staff member Peggy Presley
introduces guest speaker, Raven
Willoughby, M.S.
You have faced school—each of you came to Next Step with different experiences in school. For many of
you, school never came easily, never felt comfortable, and yet you found a way to make it work for you.
For both groups of students, we gather tonight to honor you, not at the end of a journey, but in the
middle of one. Whether you’re being inducted into the National Adult Education Honor Society or
being recognized for earning your high school equivalency, this is an achievement that hopefully will be
just one of many. Tonight, however, let us pause to celebrate and appreciate all that you have already
achieved.
It also is no done-deal. No matter who you are and what you need, your journey does not stop tonight.
Maybe gathering you here today was just an elaborate trick to get you to make appointments with
Jennie and Richa who are here to support you as you take that Next Step in pursuing a career or
continuing with your education.
Beyond that, I suspect some of the most valuable
things you’ve gained in your studies are not
adequately represented by that piece of paper
(impressive though it is). Think about all the things
that will stay with you; think about all the tools you
have built; think about all the people you have gotten
to know. These aspects of an education, while often
hidden behind the glamour of a diploma, are some of
the most valuable gifts. Take the time to reflect and
remember as you travel on your educational journey
and use what you learn to propel you forward.
“This journey has not only enhanced you as
an individual, but also your community.”
—Guest speaker Raven Williams, M.S.,
Community Development
16
Regardless of how you got here, we are proud of all
of our high school equivalency graduates for their
dedication to their education and would like to invite
them up to be recognized.
Next Step Learning Center
Next Step Inducts nine Students into the
National Adult Education Honor Society
By Lee Goodman-Gargagliano, HSE Coordinator
Next Step Learning Center has joined the National
Adult Education Honor Society. The NAEHS
recognizes adult students for their excellence in adult
education programs across the country. Students
receive a certificate and a pin as well as letters of
recommendation for college and job applications.
Students are nominated for induction based on
three criteria: 1) attendance, 2) participation, and 3)
personal growth. One staff member wrote of a 2015
nominee, she “is very conscientious about her work.
If she is not working with a tutor, she knows what she
wants to work on. She takes responsibility for her
learning.” Another shared of a male student, “His
regular attendance and steady focus on schoolwork
provide [him] with stability and grounding and allow
him to challenge himself and engage in a way that is
right for him.” The 2015 inductees were recognized
Lee introduces Adia, new member of the Honor Society.
with a ceremony at Next Step Learning Center on
August 13, 2015.
Next Step is thrilled to announce our 2015 inductees
into the National Adult Education Honor Society:
Mariah Chavis, Brien Filippi, Runda Lanier, Janaice
McFee, Adia Newman, Michael Smith III, Ildelisa Vera,
Alaina Wiggins, and Inezy Williams. Congratulations
and keep up the good work!
Volunteer Tutors (2014–2015)
Daniel Alvarez
Rob Favole
John Hunt
Mary Lu McGuire
David Ruenzel, RIP Nancy Williams
Bill Banker
John Finan
Harry Hutzel
Richard McIntosh
Mary Sandri
Lloyd Baysdorfer
Richard Frobose
Linda Jaffe
Mary Santana
Jon Bendz
Jane Gabel
Patsie Kao
Samantha
Mercado
Sr. Amora Binnom
Ron Gazzano
Hiroko Kawana
Chip Miles
Meg Bowerman
Helen Gerken
John King
Chandra Miller
Michael Sherman
Mary Brutocao
Kathleen Gesley
John Kluesener
Helen Munch
Bill Schneider
Sr. Inez Sherwood
Jim Wong
Margaret Wooster
Ralph Zackheim
Stephen Zovickian
Nancy Swart
WORKFORCE
Dick Totten
VOLUNTEER
Larry Burne
Steve Ghidinelli
Mira LaBelle
Joe Nance
Karen Carlson
Gary Ginder
Marjan Ladjevardi
Fred Naseef
Amy Collins
Melanie Gould
Carol Leahy
Ellen Nathanson
Margaret Cooke
Steve Gregory
Roxanne LeBlanc
Julie Palley
Loretta
Vanderveen
Joanne Dale
Deborah Grieb
Stephen Linden
Thomas Palmer
Ann Varni
Kathleen Dolan
Edras Gustin
Christina Magana
Arlene Pearl
Eileen Vohs
Bob Drakes
Jacquie Guzzo
June Vonich
Melinda Erickson
Wayne Harbert
Theresa Masterson Karen Platt
Marianne Poppas
Richard Maurer
Randi Voorhies
WEBSITE
Beverly Ervin
David Herum
Sr. Donna Maynard Bob Ratto
Joe Walsh
VOLUNTEER
Kathleen Evans
Morris Hirsch
Ellen McGinn
Ray Westergard
Michael Lubofsky
FALL 2015 News
Sandy Rogin
Natalie Van Tassel Terri Jones
TECHNOLOGY
VOLUNTEERS
Johnny Presley
Mike Voorhies
17
A Milestone for De’Jauna
by Jennie Emard, College
Transition Coordinator
De’Jauna Howard has
known that she wants
to work with children
for a very long time. As
is the case with many
other NSLC students,
she had many obstacles
to overcome in order to
achieve the career she
desires, including lack of
housing stability and lack of financial resources. She
worked hard to attain her High School Equivalency,
while suffering interruptions that made attendance
impossible at times as well as diminishing her hopes
that she would ever be able to move on to attending
community college. De’Jauna always dug deep and
found the hope one needs to keep trying and never
lost faith in her ability to achieve her ultimate goal.
It is with pleasure that I write of her achievements
in the spring 2015 semester. After completing
three short semesters at Merritt Community
College, De’Jauna has graduated with a Certificate
of Proficiency in Child Development in Assistant
Linda and Coy discuss science diagrams,
graphs, and illustrations.
18
Teaching and is one class short for the Associate
Teacher Certification, which she is completing this
fall. Additionally, she has completed Introduction to
American Sign Language at Berkeley City College
and plans to incorporate basic sign language into her
future curriculum. In fall 2014, De’Jauna helped to
re-start the Unity Club at Merritt with fellow students
in order to address lack of student communication
and activities on her campus, and she now holds
the position of Secretary. Currently, she is training to
join the soccer team this fall 2015 as she continues
to march toward her ultimate goal of achieving the
Associate Degree in Child Development. She will
likely then transfer for a B.A. in Child Development at
a four year school.
De’Jauna had some rough edges when I met her
years ago while working to attain her HSE, and
rightfully so, considering all she had to overcome to
access the educational opportunities that are a right
for all citizens. She has polished herself to become an
above average student who takes part in campus life
and takes advantage of any opportunity to improve
herself and her prospects. Now she encourages
other students in the College Program and is always
a positive presence on campus and in the College
Transition Center.
Mary Lu and Chris
topher study US
History
highlights using tim
elines.
Next Step Learning Center
2222 Curtis Street, Oakland, CA 94607 • 510-251-1731 • fax: 510-251-8028 • nextsteplc@earthlink.net
www.nextsteplc.org
MISSION
Next Step Learning Center believes in the resilience of the human spirit and in each person’s ability to learn
and to change. Our mission is to strengthen Oakland families and communities through intensive, personalized
tutoring and other programs in basic literacy, GED preparation, and transition to college and the workforce.
We support each person by providing a caring environment, bridges to the business, civic and educational
community, and a strong support and follow-up system.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ADVISORY BOARD
STAFF
Evelyn Ashcroft
Supervisor Keith Carson
Cynthia Canning, SNJM
Peter Boero
Steve Gregory
Eugene Brown, Jr.
Jacquie Guzzo
Warren “Chip” Brown
Glenn Isaacson
Mary Brutocao
John Kemp
Cynthia Canning, SNJM
Daryl Lillie
Operations Manager and Pre-High
School Equivalency Coordinator
Rosemary Delaney, SNJM
Michael Lubofsky
Monica Berson
David A. Pereda
Cornell Maier
Accounting Assistant
Peter Raffo
Yolanda Peeks
Jennie Emard
Stephen Sanger
Johnny Presley
Gregory Schopf, Chair
Bill Somerville
Maureen Viani, SNJM
Robert Venema
High School Equivalency Coordinator/
Multi-Subjects HSE Teacher
James A. Vohs
Michael Voorhies
Myra Hutson
Co-Director
Rosemary Delaney, SNJM
Co-Director
Peggy Presley
College Transition Coordinator
Lee Goodman-Gargagliano
Michael P. Walsh
Greeter
Anne Whittington
Diedri Lydia
Nancy Williams
Jim Wong
Custodian
Karen Matza
Reading/Language Arts Teacher
Richa Pokhrel
Workforce Connections Coordinator
and Database Manager
Carolyn Schour
Accountant
Next Step Learning Center is sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Names.
FALL 2015 News
Kay Thompson
Development/Administrative Assistant
19
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
2222 Curtis Street
Oakland, CA 94607
Oakland, CA
Permit No. 1644
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
in this issue…
Next Step Turns 21! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Matching Grant Opportunity!. . . . . . . . . . . 3
Stories of Determination and Success! . . . . 4
Next Step HSE Graduates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Workforce Connections Workshop Series . . . 7
Next Step College Students
as Volunteer Tutors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Meet Our Newest Staff Member . . . . . . . 12
Richa Says Farewell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Literacy Changes Lives! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Next Step’s Access Scholarships . . . . . . . . . 8
Celebratory Evening Honoring
Our Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Next Step Student To Be Published! . . . . . . 9
Volunteer Tutors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Workshops for Tutors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
E-mail Addresses Wanted! . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Congratulations to Nicholas! . . . . . . . . . . 11
A Milestone for De’Jauna . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
About Next Step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
& more!