Escalera
Escalera students on a site visit to Frito-Lay
In partnership with the National Council for La Raza and Pepsi Foundation, Escalera is an award-winning program housed within the American YouthWorks Charter High School. Its purpose is to provide a non-traditional approach to overcoming obstacles in order to provide our youth with the necessary educational and employment skills to compete in today’s job market. Our goal is to promote economic mobility by increasing educational obtainment and access to information about advanced career options for disconnected youth through experiential learning. Please contact Toni Moreno at 512.744.1934 or TMoreno@americanyouthworks.org, if you would like more information about our Escalera program.
EL/Civics – Adult English Language Classes
Students in the EL/Civics class learn English in evening classes.
EL/Civics classes provide English language instruction to any person age 18 and over who are limited in their ability to read, write, or speak English. Lessons are taught using themes of life in the United States, including family, banking, work, shopping, and health. Classes are taught in sessions that last approximately six weeks with three sessions held during each public school semester and two during the summer. Please contact Alexia Estes at 512.744.1900 or aestes@americanyouthworks.org, if you are interested in participating in EL/Civics classes.
Even Start – Family Learning Program
Even Start students
The Even Start program enrolls parents along with their children age birth to seven years. Classes include Beginner and Intermediate English, as well as GED or the diploma program in the Service Learning Academy. While parents are in class, children will also be in class, preparing to enter the public school. An additional 5 hours per week will be devoted to parenting classes and the whole family learning together. To enroll, at least one eligible parent and one eligible child must participate together. Those who wish to enroll in Even Start must first enroll in EL/Civics, GED or the SLA. Fore more information, contact aestes@americanyouthworks.org or call (512)744-1959.
High School Equivalency Program (HSEP) and Community-based GED Program
American YouthWorks Charter High School operates a High School Equivalency Program (HSEP). This program provides an alternative high school completion for students ages 16 and over who are at risk of not earning a high school diploma. HSEP prepares eligible students to take the high school equivalency examination, also known as the General Equivalency Degree (GED). Charter School students interested in enrolling in HSEP must meet an established list of criteria per the Texas Education Agency. An academic advisor will determine if the student meets the HSEP requirements.
In addition, American YouthWorks community-based organization operates a GED program designed for adults ages 17 and older. Adult participants who are enrolled in an American YouthWorks program, such as Casa Verde Builders, WorkSource, or Even Start, are eligible to enroll in the GED program. Please contact Ken Ballage at 512.744.1913 or KBallage@americanyouthworks.org, if you are interested in learning about these programs.
