Services
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 an individual schedule and make a personal education plan that works for you. Day-time and evening hours are available.
Study Options
Study the way that works for you! Students are required to attend at least once per week. Homework assignments and online support are additional ways to study throughout the week.
Programs
Literacy and Basic Skills
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
Earn an accredited high school diploma at your own pace. Open to students 17 years and older (with no upper age limit), you can 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, and receive individual tutoring in subjects where you need support.
Students must be at least 17 years of age and must not be currently enrolled in any other high school. Out-of-school youth can re-engage in high school with a full or part-time schedule. There is no upper age-limit and older students are encouraged.
Click here to learn more about Opportunity Academy.
GED / High School Equivalency
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 may be taken at a different, certified testing center (or online at Next Step)
College Success
Do you dream of going to college? Are you curious about college certificate and degree options? The College Success program will guide you step-by-step through the enrollment process and provide you with 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 program is open to Next Step students who successfully complete their diploma or high school equivalency with us.
Career Services
Next Step students work with volunteer mentors and Next Step staff to explore vocational options and move into sustainable careers. Services include:
workplace skill building (such as computer training)
career assessments
vocational counseling
resume building and interview practice, along with
job training and employment placement services Services are open to current students and graduates of our diploma, GED and college programs.
