Education Transforming Lives: Celebrating the Next Step Learning Center Class of 2026

By Dylan Lanza Desio, PVF Program and Communications Associate

At Next Step Learning Center, low-income youth and adults re-engage in education. With the support of caring staff, dedicated tutors, and stimulating curriculum, students build basic literacy, earn a high school diploma or GED, gain job skills, succeed in college, and embark on sustaining careers.

Next Step envisions free access to education, a second chance to complete high school, and college and career success opportunities. Next Step has been transforming lives through education for over 30 years, reaching thousands of people and families. They follow a philosophy of prioritizing the full development of the human person and every individual’s ability to learn and grow. The students not only make academic gains but also have a safe place to find support, learn life skills, overcome challenges, and heal from trauma.

This month, the Next Step Learning Center celebrated their 2026 class with a graduation ceremony. The excitement and energy at the graduation were evident as each of the 100+ graduates took their next step across the stage

During the graduation, several graduates shared their stories, plans for the future, and their gratitude for the Next Step Learning Center.

• One graduate had not been in school for more than twenty-two years and through Next Step she was able to return to classes to get her diploma and has now started her college journey with a goal of becoming a fitness trainer. She wants to echo the work of Next Step and give back to her community. She shares, “No matter how old you are. It’s never too late.”
• Another graduate expressed their gratitude for the Next Step Learning Center that has helped him take meaningful steps towards his dream of becoming an engineer. This graduate walked in with an eighth grade education and time in prison after a wrongful conviction and was able to come out with a high school degree and plans for engineering school.
• A third graduating student reflected on her time at Next Step, emphasizing the importance of fighting for the future you want. She expressed deep appreciation for the community, concluding with a heartfelt, “To the tutors working tirelessly with us, thank you for giving us your time.”

The Next Step Learning Center is made possible by the amazing staff, volunteer tutors, and dedicated students. Many graduates described Next Step as a “second home.” The staff is dedicated to helping each student reach their education and career goals and remain a resource for students beyond their time at the Next Step.

PVF is proud to highlight the important work and meaningful successes at the Next Step Learning Center. We are excited to watch as more lives are touched by the Next Step Learning Center and graduates continue to transform their lives through education.