Next Step Academics: Company Profile

Background

Mission: Next Step Academics is dedicated to providing personalized resources and assistance to help Texas students overcome obstacles and achieve their college, career, and military aspirations.

Vision: The organization envisions equitable access for all students in higher education, career, and military opportunities, free from barriers to success and inclusivity.

Philosophy: Emphasizing both academic achievement and socio-emotional health, Next Step Academics aims to equip students with the knowledge and resources to explore diverse career, college, and military pathways, enabling informed decisions about their futures.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives:

• College Preparation: Offering personalized assistance with college applications, including FAFSA guidance, SAT/ACT preparation, essay writing, and financial aid counseling.

• Trade Programs: Supporting students interested in skilled trades by assisting with documentation, entry test preparation, and connecting them with local unions for apprenticeships in fields such as electrician, pipefitting, plumbing, and HVAC.

• Military Success: Providing comprehensive test preparation for military entrance exams, specialized workout regimens, and guidance to ensure physical readiness for military service.

• Tutoring & Academic Support: Offering personalized tutoring services across various subjects to enhance academic performance.

• Career Placement Assistance: Assisting with resume building, interview preparation, and networking opportunities, collaborating with Houston-based businesses to provide access to job openings.

• High School Diploma Completion: In partnership with Smart Schools, offering a fully online program that allows individuals to earn their high school diploma on a flexible schedule with personal advisor support.

Financials and Funding

As a nonprofit organization established in 2023, Next Step Academics relies on donations, memberships, and partnerships to fund its programs. The organization encourages general donations, offers membership tiers with various benefits, and seeks corporate partnerships to support its mission.

Pipeline Development

Next Step Academics has successfully assisted over 100 students in achieving their educational and career goals:

• 72 students have been accepted into college.

• 55 students have entered vocational training programs.

• 64 students have enlisted in the military.

Additionally, the organization has provided 120 hours of online volunteer tutoring, conducted 89 mock interviews, and organized five free military workouts to meet entry requirements.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Next Step Academics leverages online platforms to deliver its services, including virtual tutoring sessions and digital resources such as e-books for college and military preparation. The partnership with Smart Schools enables a fully online high school diploma program, providing flexibility and personalized support to students.

Leadership Team

• Kordale Lahner: CEO & Founder

Kordale Lahner leads Next Step Academics with a commitment to educational equity and student empowerment. Under his leadership, the organization has developed comprehensive programs to support students in achieving their academic and career goals.

Board of Directors:

• LeAna Dixion, MBA, BS: Goose Creek CISD, Order of Eastern Stars

• Shadrick Charles: Project Manager

• Philip Randle: Retired Department of Justice

• Devora Myles, BS: Sheldon ISD Board Member, Local 1351, President of Women of Grace Women's Organization, Order of Eastern Stars

Leadership Changes

As a relatively new organization, specific details regarding recent leadership changes are not available. The current leadership team has been instrumental in establishing and guiding the organization's mission since its inception.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics:

The educational support sector in Texas is characterized by a growing demand for personalized assistance in college preparation, vocational training, and military readiness, particularly among underserved communities. Organizations that offer comprehensive, tailored programs addressing these needs are well-positioned to make a significant impact.

Competitor Analysis:

While specific competitors are not detailed, organizations offering similar services include:

• College Preparation Services: Companies providing SAT/ACT tutoring, college application assistance, and financial aid counseling.

• Vocational Training Programs: Institutions offering trade certifications and apprenticeships in skilled trades.

• Military Preparation Programs: Organizations specializing in ASVAB tutoring and physical training for military enlistment.

Next Step Academics differentiates itself by offering a holistic suite of services under one umbrella, focusing on personalized support and addressing the unique challenges faced by students in underserved communities.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Next Step Academics collaborates with various entities to enhance its offerings:

• Smart Schools: A partnership providing an online high school diploma program, allowing students to complete their education flexibly and affordably.

• Local Businesses: Engaging with Houston-based companies to offer career placement assistance, including job openings, resume building, and interview preparation.

• Community Colleges and Workforce Training Programs: Partnering to provide resources and support for students pursuing vocational training.

Operational Insights

Next Step Academics operates with a focus on eliminating obstacles faced by students in underserved communities. By offering a comprehensive range of services—from academic support to career placement—the organization addresses multiple facets of student development. Its commitment to equity and inclusion ensures that all students have access to opportunities and resources, empowering them to achieve independence and financial stability.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, Next Step Academics aims to expand its reach and impact by:

• Scaling Programs: Increasing the capacity of existing programs to serve more students across Texas.

• Enhancing Digital Resources: Developing additional online tools and resources to support students remotely.

• Strengthening Partnerships: Building new collaborations with educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations to broaden the scope of services offered.

• Advocacy and Awareness: Raising awareness about the challenges faced by underserved students and advocating for policies that promote educational equity.

Contact Information

• Website: Next Step Academics

• Social Media:

• Facebook: Next Step Academics

• Instagram: Next Step Academics

• Twitter: Next Step Academics

Next Step Academics continues to be a pivotal force in transforming the educational landscape for Texas students, ensuring that every individual has the support and resources needed to succeed in their chosen paths.