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HIV/AIDS Resource Guide for Sonoma County

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General Sonoma County Services: Educational Services

Returning to School

Returning to school after many years can be intimidating but is by no means impossible. There are many adults who go back to school later in life. Education is not a privilege for the young and in fact, going back later in life can be an advantage, as you will see. You may even find school easier as an adult. A good first step may be to see a guidance counselor to discuss admission requirements or program possibilities or to simply look online for programs that may interest you.

Tips for Going Back to School

• Know why you want to go back: Often people are told to first make goals. However, if you are not clear about your purpose for going back to school then you will find reaching your goals difficult. Your purpose should motivate you to reach your goals.
• Set realistic goals: It may be good to take it slow at first in order to give your body and mind time to readjust to the learning process as well as the institutions you will be dealing with. Make sure you schedule time to take meds and keep yourself generally healthy in addition to completing class work. Be realistic about your health. School can be exhausting for anyone but may be especially tiring if you have HIV.
• Know the alternatives: Some people find traditional school very difficult and uninteresting. Taking tests, writing papers, getting grades... There are many educational institutions out there that are not traditional but are equally as valid. Some liberal arts schools don't even have grades! Others don't have traditional classes where you hear a lecture but experiential classes akin to an internship. You can also take classes online or through the mail.
• Don't let your age interfere: It may feel intimidating to be around many people far younger than you. Remember that everyone has his or her own path and that in fact, your age can be an advantage. Self-knowledge and self-respect may improve one's ability and motivation to succeed in school. These things come with age. Furthermore, your life experience may be useful in your area of study and some schools even offer credit for career or life experience. For example, you may be able to do a project about your experience living with HIV and get credit for it! Talk to a guidance counselor to find out more information on how you may gain credit for life experience.
• Know your resources: If you really want to learn, don't let admission requirements, finances, or entrance tests stand in your way. Know the resources inside and outside of your school that may help you through this process. Resources may include tutors, mentors, instructors, study centers, reading programs, financial aid, guidance counselors, friends, other students, for family. As someone living with HIV, schools may also offer special health resources through on-campus clinics.
• Stay committed: It will be difficult at times. Accept the difficulty, get help where you can and move forth.
• Be gentle on yourself: You have been through a lot. Don't beat yourself up if you don't get an 'A' on your first paper or test. If it feels overwhelming know that this is normal and do what you need to take care of yourself.
• For more information about going back to school contact a Project ReConnect Advocate at 565-6680.

Educational Services

*Spanish speaking staff available or can be arranged.

*Adult Literacy League
707-539-3848
651 Yolanda Avenue, Santa Rosa
Teaches basic reading and writing skills to American-born adults and English as a second language to non-English-speaking adults. Confidential one-to-one or small class instruction.
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.; Tuesday: 1:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Fee: None

*ESL (English as a Second Language)
See Lewis Adult Education Center or Santa Rosa Junior College.

Even Start Program
Lincoln Elementary
707-522-3216
Santa Rosa

*Lewis Adult Education Center
Info Line: 707-528-5421 Main Office: 707-522-3280
2230 Lomitas Avenue, Santa Rosa
Provides general education, business education, and computer classes for adults who need a high school diploma, GED, or employment skills. ESL classes are also available. Night classes are available.
Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Fees: Vary, call for more information

*Migrant Education
707-526-1272
5510 Skylane Boulevard, Suite 100, Santa Rosa
Provides student and family support, student enrichment and intervention activities, and summer educational program in cooperation with school districts.
Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm.
Fee: None

North Bay Advocates
707-303-6468
720 Belglen Way, Sebastopol
Provides legal, educational, advocacy, and consulting services to youth (0-22 years) with needs for special education support and representation.
Fee: Sliding scale.

*Petaluma Adult School
707-778-4633
200 Douglas Street, Petaluma
Classes in English, ESL, classes in GED preparation, high school diploma, citizenship, independent study, and career development.

High Schools Accepting Pregnant & Parenting Teens

Creekside High School Teen Parent Program
707-933-4059
20000 Broadway, Sonoma

Healdsburg High School Independent Study
707-431-3427
1024 Prince Street, Healdsburg

Nueva Vista
707-522-3291
2232 Lomitas Avenue, Santa Rosa
Hours: Monday - Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

San Antonio High School
707-778-4758
500 Vallejo Street, Petaluma

Alternative Programs

Continuation Schools - Class and study schedules accommodate students' specific needs. Contact your school district for schools in your area.

High School Proficiency Exam - Must be at least 16 years old. Recognized throughout the state, but not universally nationwide, as equivalent to conventional high school diploma.

GED (Graduation Equivalency Degree) - Must be at least 17 years to take the test. Signifies student has passed competency tests in English, science and math. The test is recognized nationwide as high school diploma equivalent, but test does not meet same criteria. Preparatory classes are available as adult education centers and Santa Rosa Junior College.

NSS (Necessary Small School) - Located on conventional high school campus. Graduation and diploma requirements same as for conventional high school, but class and study schedule adjusted to meet student needs.

Independent Study - Offered through most schools. May receive diploma through conventional high school or take test for GED or proficiency diploma.

Higher Education

*Santa Rosa Junior College
707-527-4382
1501 Mendocino Avenue, Santa Rosa
www.santarosa.edu/for_students/student-services/

Adult Re-Entry Services
707-527-4375
www.santarosa.edu/reentry
Assists return to school for 25+ year olds.

Disability Resources Department
707-527-4278
online.santarosa.edu/presentation/?4928
Provides people with disabilities equal access to a community college education through specialized instruction, disability related support services, and advocacy activities.

Extended Opportunity Program & Services
707-527-4383
www.santarosa.edu/app/paying-for-college/eops/
Assists with admissions, financial aid forms, registration, book vouchers, childcare, special classes, and transfers.

Sonoma State University
707-664-2880
1801 E. Cotati Avenue, Rohnert Park
www.sonoma.edu

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Disclaimer: The Sonoma County Department of Health Services makes no assumption of quality and makes no warranties regarding providers appearing in this resource guide. This resource guide simply a public listing provided for consumer convenience, and is not a recommendation or endorsement by the Department.