Every day, many young people in our community face impossible choices.
Do they go to school or go to work? Focus on homework or help support their families?
At Directions to Diploma (DtoD), our Academic Navigators (Navigators) help students overcome obstacles that stand between them and a high school diploma. Geovany's story shows what's possible when determination meets encouragement, guidance, and opportunity
When Demands Made Graduation Feel Out of Reach
When Geovany came to the United States from Guatemala in 2018, he faced the challenge of learning a new language while adapting to a new school system. He worked hard, attended the English as a Second Language (ESL) Literacy Center, and steadily earned credits toward graduation.
But by his fifth year of high school, life had become more complicated. Circumstances at home changed and Geovany needed to help support his family. He began working full time at a meat processing plant, often until 1 a.m. As work demands increased, his attendance slipped, his grades suffered, and graduation began to feel out of reach.
A Determined Student Facing Tough Choices
A school social worker referred Geovany to DtoD, where Navigator Hansel Gonzalez saw a student with tremendous potential who was struggling to balance school, work, and family responsibilities.
Geovany was trying to do the work of an adult while still finishing high school. When Hansel talked with him about the impact his job was having on school, Geovany shared that quitting wasn't an option. His family depended on him.
Many students facing similar circumstances eventually leave school altogether. Geovany could have done the same. Instead, he kept showing up whenever he could and continued moving toward his goal.
The Power of Someone Who Won't Give Up
Hansel knew Geovany needed only seven more credits to graduate. Through texts, phone calls, home visits, and regular check-ins, he reminded Geovany that finishing school was still within reach.
Geovany's mother echoed that encouragement, reminding him why their family had come to the United States: to create better opportunities for their children.
Together, they gave him the encouragement he needed to keep moving forward.
A New Reason to Graduate
As Geovany began improving his attendance and earning credits again, he learned he was going to become a father. The news gave him a renewed sense of purpose. Earning his diploma was no longer just about him. It was about creating new opportunities for his growing family.
With support from Hansel and the people who believed in him, Geovany stayed focused on his goal and crossed the graduation stage.
The Moment It All Paid Off
After earning his diploma, Geovany shared a message with Hansel that perfectly captured the significance of the accomplishment:
“Thank you for pushing me, Hansel. Someday, it will mean a lot to be able to tell my kids I graduated from high school.””
Hansel reflected:
"It was a pleasure seeing someone so young work so hard to accomplish his goals. Geovany used situations that others would see as a deterrent, and he turned them into motivation."
Every Student Deserves Someone in Their Corner
Today, students across our community face challenges similar to Geovany's. They need encouragement, guidance, and someone who will keep showing up when life becomes overwhelming.
We believe education creates opportunity. Your financial support helps provide the guidance students need to stay on track and earn their diploma. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn to see the difference your support makes and to stay connected with our work.