Our Services

 Academic Instruction | Employment Services | Case Management | Other Services/Benefits

 

Academic Instruction
At LCN, our teachers work one-on-one with each student to develop an Individual Action Plan (IAP).  Each IAP is developed and adapted based on several factors, including CASAS assessments that determine a student's skill set levels, a student's own stated goals, and feedback from case managers, staff, parents, and other stakeholders.  Ultimately, the curriculum for each student is determined at the discretion of the teacher and student based on "what works."
 
As students progress, they will develop a habit of excellence and willingness to test, not for a grade but as a measure of GED-readiness.  Students must achieve an 80% or greater in each skills-based exam before moving on to the next skill set.  We are also currently cultivating the college preparatory and post-GED aspects of our program, so that students who are successful in achieving their GED can continue developing their skills prior to or during college.  In a nutshell, the academic support provided at LCN includes:

• Individualized instruction to help students earn their GED
• Support for boosting math, reading, and writing levels in preparation for the college entrance exam
• Opportunities to develop the skill sets, mindset, and language required of successful college students
• Students can enroll in post-GED studies to continue improving basic skills before or during college.

 

Employment Services
We recognize that increased competition in the work world today requires the inclusion of employment training services in our program practices.  To help our students develop marketable workplace skills and an understanding of what it takes to find and keep jobs, we offer the following services:

• A series of six 2-hour classes that prepare youth to conduct a successful job search
• One-on-one job search support and support for students who are currently employed
• 10-13 week paid Service-Learning and Work Experience Internship opportunities for qualifying students
• Flash service-learning opportunities with the opportunity to receive $50 incentives (such as Environmental Work Parties, Deep Roots Kitchen Project)
• Instruction and assistance with:
       Job applications, references, resumes, and cover letters
       Interviewing techniques
       Identifying transferable skills, personal qualities, and strengths
       Self-directed job search activities
       Career exploration and planning

 

Case Management
We understand that barriers outside of school can have a profound effect on a student's ability to find success, academically and professionally.  To that end, we provide students with comprehensive support from our case management staff, which includes:

• Assessment of student barriers through an intake session and planning to assist students in reducing barriers in order to be successful in their academic planning and goals
• Referrals to community resources and assistance in dealing with barriers to academic and employment success like housing, parenting issues, legal issues, and substance abuse
• Strategizing of future plans with follow-up sessions to keep students on track
• In-depth discussions around the sacrifices needed to pursue academic or employment goals
• Provision of support services for eligible students (e..g., bus tickets for transportation to and from school)
• Individualized support and counseling as well as some emergency financial assistance
• Help transitioning to free community college classes

 

Other Services/Benefits

• Students can earn financial incentives for completing goals relating to academics and employment services
• LCN pays GED testing fees