“I got tired of asking my kids for help, so I wanted to try and master this,” Mr. Coria said. “I’m ready to move on from my job… I want to start a new chapter.”
He’s getting started with the help of Jurupa Technology Education for Parents (JTEP) classes.
JTEP classes, which offer instruction in computing skills, are among various programs offered for parents and the community through the Parent Involvement and Community Outreach (P.I.C.O.) department.
“I gotta do it for me, to better myself,” Mr. Coria said. He is a parent of two daughters, one of whom is a freshman at Jurupa Valley High School, where the JTEP classes took place.
JVHS offers three levels of JTEP courses: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Students learn basic computing skills, such as opening programs, and incrementally gain knowledge to advance into more complex capabilities, such as working with programs like Excel and Word.
Mr. Coria said his goal is “to learn as much information as possible. There are some things that I am grasping little by little. I never imagined… being in class but I push myself.”
Philip Ramirez, Teacher on Special Assignment - Community Schools at JVHS, sees the benefits the JTEP classes provide to the community.
“As we advance in technology… they’re (the adult students) not left behind, and… they’re able to check their student's grades or look at social media for future events and really protect their students from any dangers online,” Mr. Ramirez said.
Maricruz Barajas, JTEP instructor, has led the classes since 2020 and provides instruction in Spanish.
“I am aware of several people who have obtained jobs. One of them even works here for the school district. Whenever they ask me, I always use her as an example because she was able to get involved in the productive field.” Ms. Barajas said.
As the adult students progress through the classes, they receive certificates and will participate in a graduation ceremony after they complete their level.
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“We have some certificates for the parents just to recognize them for their hard work and their achievement,” Mr. Ramirez said.
The JTEP courses provide important resources for anyone looking to gain new skills. Classes are held in a supportive and welcoming environment.
“Technology and science advance so quickly, it is important that we are prepared and up-to-date on this topic of computing,” Ms. Barajas said.
“Sometimes we adults, we might think we know everything about computers. But the computer world is evolving… I'm grateful that I came to this class cause I’m learning a lot.” Mr. Coria said.
