Why Teaching at JobTrain Matters to GED Instructor Sandra Sharp

Fulfilling Dreams... 

After many years working at Apple - most recently as Ipod Operations Director, Sandra Sharp, decided to make a career change that would be more personally rewarding.  She received her Mathematics teaching credential in 2009 and worked at a high school in San Francisco prior to joining JobTrain in 2011.

As a youth GED instructor at JobTrain, Sandra is very focused on creating a learning environment that is welcoming and supportive of each student’s needs.  As a result of this individualized instruction and encouragement the graduation rate has accelerated, with 10 youth completing their GED in the last six months ending in December!

Currently student LaSaundra Brown said, "I've had many struggles with math in the past. Sandra has been ready and willing to help me on a moment's notice. I've never had such help before. Earning my GED will bring a sense of pride and a belief that I can do anything!"

Watch Interview with Sandra Sharp!

JobTrain GED Instructor Sandra Sharp, helps student LaSaundra Brown

Mary Thompson Receives JobTrain's Highest Honor!

Congratulations to OUR Newest Trainee of the Month: Mary Thompson!

On September 14, 2012, Mary Thompson received JobTrain's highest honor and was recognized as their Trainee of the Month.

Mary first came to the GED class eight months ago at JobTrain. Pursuing her education has been a lifetime dream. While Mary helped her children to fulfill their dreams and attend college, she patiently waited for her time to come. Whereas her children were afforded the opportunity of studying in the United States, Mary was denied access to education where she lived in Ghana. In her village, the girls stayed home, learned domestic arts and were very entrepreneurial - even without formal education - to make financial ends meet.

Despite a lack of formal education, Mary did a wonderful job, with her husband's assistance, preparing their children to lead successful lives. Although she imparted much wisdom to them, she was unable to help them with their homework.

According to Mary's JobTrain instructor, Karen Lundberg: "This student doesn't just attend both the morning and afternoon sessions of GED, she comes back (often stays straight through) for the evening class from 6-9 on Tuesday and Thursday nights. She is always one of the first ones here and the last to leave. A spigot of knowledge has been opened for her and she wants to drink deeply of it."

Be sure to watch the video of today's Trainee of the Month ceremony by clicking HERE. 

Living the American Dream: Juan's Story

How 3 Letters Led to Success

JUAN VAZZQUEZ earned his GED at JobTrain and his world of employment opportunities opened.

Without a high school diploma, Vazzquez faced years of rejection and limited prospects. He wanted to change his life and advance his education. Discovering JobTrain was a blessing and an opportunity to start a new life!

Vazzquez studied vigorously with Karen Lundberg, JobTrain’s GED instructor. After spending (6) hours in the classroom, he’d study an additional (4) hours at home. This time around, Vazzquez had a clear goal in mind and would allow nothing to stand in his way, impede his progress or obstruct his vision for achieving the American Dream.

Long weeks of dedication, sacrifice and focus became Vazzquez’s way of life. “I’ve never seen such perseverance with someone trying to earn their GED. I am very impressed and proud of him,” Karen said.

Now, Vazzquez has the promising future he’s long dreamt of. He was just hired as a cook at ALTA BATES SUMMIT MEDICAL CENTER and will earn $27.00 per hour. “I could not have done this without JobTrain and all of Karen’s support,” Juan humbly conveyed.