September 2022
News, updates and perspectives on the
future of education from Learn4Life
Sophia is Prepared for College –
Both Academically and Emotionally 
Traditional high school was a challenge for Sophia G. because a chronic illness and need for surgery had her missing so many classes that she was falling behind. With a flexible schedule at Learn4Life, she could go at her own pace, and her teachers even made sure she got her assignments when she was home sick or in the hospital.
 
“I joined our school administrator’s mentor group, and it was one of the most enlightening things I experienced at Learn4Life,” she explained. “He always told me there’s no right time to graduate high school or accomplish anything, there was just your time, and your timing is perfect.” 
Teens Earn While They Learn with WIOA Programs  
When students are given the opportunity to learn something they can apply in real life, they are more engaged in school and perform better academically – and why we integrate Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) partnerships into our learning model. Students prepare for jobs by developing professional skills, land paid internships and earn high school credits while achieving industry-recognized certifications.
 
Established in 2014, WIOA is a work-training program that helps eligible students learn new skills for tomorrow’s workforce. We have more than 8,000 students who receive universal workforce development services from 40+ WIOA partners across California. The program is completely free to students, and WIOA provides training, tutoring, mentorship, leadership development, wraparound services and more.
Once Her Own Antagonist, Karina is Now Happy, Outgoing and Has a Bright Future 
Karina B. struggled with some mental health issues that made going to a public school difficult. She was anxious around large groups and suffered from depression which exhausted her both emotionally and physically. “Learn4Life helped me finally face myself. Did I really want to spend my whole life going in circles? Or did I want to move forward with my life?” she explained. “I was given that extra support I needed to grow as an individual and do schoolwork at my own pace.”
 
She credits many of the Learn4Life-sponsored workshops that helped her develop social-emotional health and coping skills. Karina transformed into an eager and successful student and was offered a paid position as an alumni ambassador at her school to help assist and guide current students. During its College Week event, she shared her knowledge and experience about life after graduation, such as enrolling in college and juggling college classes with work.