Clarissa Jimenez: A Journey from Dropping Out to Lifting Up with AVANCE-Houston

Seven years ago, Clarissa Jimenez faced one of the most challenging moments of her life—her oldest daughter, Ariana, was diagnosed with autism at just two years old. At the time, Clarissa lacked the support and knowledge to navigate her daughter’s needs. But everything changed when she found AVANCE.

Initially searching for free GED classes near her home, Clarissa kept seeing AVANCE-Houston pop up in her online searches. She took it as a sign—and in March 2023, she enrolled.

“I dropped out of high school because I was hanging out with the wrong crowd,” Clarissa shared. “I thought it was cool to work instead of study. But after having my second child, I knew I wanted more for my family.”

That decision led her to AVANCE-Houston’s GED program, where she found not just classes, but a community. With the support of instructors like Dr. Patin and Gladys, Clarissa received personalized guidance, one-on-one feedback, and flexible learning options that fit her life. “They were always there for me,” she said. “Even when I couldn’t attend in person, they made sure I could join online.”

After earning her GED, Clarissa enrolled in the Parent-Child Education Program (PCEP) with her 16-month-old son, Jalen. “He started walking better, making friends, and blossoming,” she said. “PCEP helped me connect with other parents and better understand my children’s development.”

In May, Clarissa graduated from PCEP. By then, Jalen was ready to start school—and in August, he began attending AVANCE-Houston Mangum Early Head Start location. “He’s thriving,” Clarissa said. “His vocabulary has improved, he plays more, and is learning so much thanks to the Head Start curriculum.”

Though she wishes she had these resources when Ariana was younger, Clarissa is grateful for how AVANCE has helped her grow as a mother to both her toddler and her now-teenage daughter. “Because of AVANCE, I’ve become a better human, a better mom.”

Clarissa recently completed a Medical Coding and Billing Certificate through the College of Healthcare Professionals with the help of an AVANCE scholarship. She’s now seeking a remote job to support her family while staying present at home—and she’s already looking ahead to her next goal: a college degree.

She credits her success to the unwavering support of her husband, Pedro, and her mother-in-law, Zoila, who helped care for Jalen while she studied. “I’m proud of the family we’ve built,” Clarissa said. “And I’m excited for the future we’re creating—together.”