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What Better Tomorrows Offers
Current Classes
• GED Preparation: Our GED program completely prepares the student for all areas of the GED (General Educational Development) test. Lessons are computer-based, and are reinforced with homework assignments, in-class exercises, and one-on-one or in-class instruction.
• Learn How to Read and Write: Our Adult Literacy program is based upon Laubach materials, which have proven success in helping any student develop literacy skills and transferring those skills into daily tasks. Lessons are provided via one-on-one instruction and are supplemented with homework assignments and in-class exercises.
• Computer and Office Skills: This customized Computer Skills class is an Eight-Week class that teaches typing, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint and Internet Research & E-Mail skills using in-class instruction, hands-on tutorials, and in-class exercises. Great for computer rookies, first-time computer owners, soon-to-be computer owners, or those wanting to consider employment that utilizes computer skills.
• Bible Study: Better Tomorrows is built on a foundation of faith and prayer. We offer Bible Studies on the basis of that same faith. Students are invited, although not required to attend.
• Finders/Keepers: Our customized Employment Readiness class gives you the tools to find a job and keep a job. Learn to create a quality resume, present yourself with confidence, learn effective interview techniques, build effective goal-setting skills, and develop strategies for job advancement.
• Parenting - From Diapers to Diplomas: Our customized Parenting class is designed for Moms and/or Dads. Learn respectful and effective parenting, discover skills to make family life happier, and meet other parents like you. Like all of our other classes, this one is free also!
Future Classes
• Trade Skills: Electrical, Auto, Carpentry, Landscaping, Barbering
• Everyday Living Skills and Home Finance Management
• Arts: Music, Drama, Art
• Physical Education
What Sets Us Apart
BTAEC has done research to ensure we are not duplicating services offered by other organizations.There are other organizations in Nashville offering similar solutions to the needs we target; however, this is what sets us apart:
• Most other organizations serve only a narrow segment of the public: i.e. Families First clients, Hispanics, the homeless, mothers with addictions, prisoners, etc. Our program serves any adult who desires to learn. Students must be 18 years of age or older; however, seventeen-year-olds will be accepted with a waiver from the Board of Education and signed parental consent form. In addition, Better Tomorrows is committed to an anti-discrimination policy in all of its programs and services. BTAEC is consciously and proactively inclusive of all areas of diversity including, but not limited to, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, socioeconomic status, marital status, language, disability, or immigration status.
• Some organizations require payment of some kind. BTAEC provides free educational services.
• As you might expect in such a low-income area, many of our students are without transportation, making it difficult for them to travel the distances to the other organizations. We are located in the midst of a low-income area in which 40% of residents are without a high school diploma and 30% of the residents live below the poverty line. In addition, our partnership with the Regional Transit Authority allows us to provide free bus passes for students to come to class.
• Most organizations offer classes only during the day or only in the evening. BTAEC offers daytime and evening classes. In addition, Better Tomorrows allows students to set their own schedule, enabling students to both work within their employment or child care limitations and to work at a comfortable learning pace.
• Organizations tend to offer only one or two of our programs. We offer a variety of programs, including GED, literacy, computer skills, employment readiness, and parenting. Eventually, we will also add everyday living skills, community education, and elderly outreach.
• Perhaps the most significant thing that sets us apart is that we are intentional in developing a rapport with our students. These relationships allow us to more accurately identify barriers to learning, to remove those barriers where possible, and to adjust our teaching methods to make the most of student abilities. Encouragement is one of most important avenues to success for these adults who have continually been ridiculed, neglected, or left behind. We take time to talk with our students, to pat them on the back, to call and check on them when they miss class, to send a card if they continue to miss, to remind them of their goals, and to cheer them toward reaching them.
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