For years, Javier Flores tried to earn his High School Equivalency (HSE) on his own, but found it difficult to make progress. He left Mexico as a native Spanish speaker and improved his English skills over time. However, the HSE subject matter was difficult to comprehend due to his developing language skills. Javier also had to provide for his family of five, making it challenging to find the time and space to study. He sought out the Literacy Coalition because he needed study resources, a quiet space to learn, and support.
When he enrolled in the Learning Center in 2019, Javier noticed the staff’s inviting demeanor and the many tools available to help students. Grateful for the support, Javier remarked that “if I hadn’t come in [to the Literacy Coalition], I probably still wouldn’t have my HSE.”
Javier was a dedicated student as he worked to earn his HSE. He found the most difficulty with the math requirements but thanks to his hard work and encouragement from instructors, he graduated from the program in 2020.
“Graduation was a special thing I will never forget and my kids will never forget,” he reminisces. Javier recalled donning the black graduation gown and cap and accepting his certificate at the Texas State Capitol. It was a special ceremony for all of the graduates, many of whom had never been inside the building before.
To this day his kids point out the Capitol and exclaim “that’s where dada graduated!”
Once he graduated, Javier’s hard work didn’t stop there. Now equipped with an HSE, he went on to enroll in Austin Community College’s Utility Lineworker Certificate Program before pivoting to launching his own yard care business, Great Yards Lawn Service. Today, he is focusing on continuing to grow his business and caring for his family, who welcomed a new addition since his graduation. As he reflected on his career journey, Javier explained, “Accomplishing my HSE was one of the greatest things for my family that I’ve ever done.”
Having gone through the HSE program at The Learning Center, Javier now encourages other people to consider the Literacy Coalition as a solution.
“Whoever out there is looking for a program or a space and place to start with their HSE and they just don’t know what to do, they better come to the Literacy Coalition because there are a lot of good people there and they know how to prepare you. They go at your pace to make sure you learn. It’s a commitment but it’s worth your time.”