Puerto Rican Youth from Despair to Hope

At PECES, we believe that transformation doesn’t end at graduation—it begins there. As part of our ongoing commitment to the success of our students, we conducted a follow-up study with graduates from the Alternative High School PECES, Classes of 2024 and 2025, to understand their current academic and professional status.

This research was carried out through direct phone calls and in-person visits to students and families, gathering first-hand data about the post-graduation journey of our youth. The findings are both encouraging and inspiring, offering solid evidence that our Alternative Education Model continues to foster pathways toward stability, purpose, and growth.

Who We Reached

• A total of 70 graduates participated in the study, representing 59% of all graduates from both classes.
• Contact was established with 57% of the Class of 2024 and 61% of the Class of 2025.
• The data reflects information collected up to August 29, 2025.

What We Discovered

• 62% of graduates are currently studying, and 61% are working.
• A significant 72% of those studying are enrolled in technical or vocational programs, while 29% are pursuing associate or bachelor’s degrees at universities.
• Overall, 64% of graduates chose technical colleges, and 36% are enrolled in universities, showing an exciting increase in the pursuit of higher education compared to previous years.
• Among those employed, 58% work in the commerce sector, while 42% are employed in construction and service industries.

Most Popular Career Choices

1. Mechanics, Welding, and Electrical Trades – 30%
2. Cosmetology and Barbering – 16%
3. Science and Technology Fields – 12%

Most Selected Institutions

• Industrial Technical College
• Inter-American University of Puerto Rico (Fajardo Campus)
• University of Puerto Rico at Humacao (UPRH)
• Mech Tech College
• AutoMeca Technical College

Some graduates are still exploring their next steps. While a few have temporarily paused their studies or job searches due to family or financial challenges, most express a clear desire to continue their education or join the workforce in the near future.

A Model That Works

What these numbers reveal is more than statistics, they tell a story of resilience and transformation. Our alternative education model is helping young people who once felt disconnected from traditional systems to now find themselves studying, working, and planning their futures with confidence.

The growing number of students pursuing university degrees is particularly significant. It shows how the PECES approach is rooted in mentorship, compassion, and life-skills training, empowers youth to dream beyond limitations and believe in long-term goals.

Why Your Support Matters

Every donation through this project makes our services, activities, research and follow-ups like this possible. It allows PECES to not only educate but also accompany our youth beyond graduation, ensuring they have the tools and guidance to stay on their path toward a dignified and productive life.

Your continued support means more young Puerto Ricans moving from despair to hope, and from hope to success.

With gratitude,
The PECES, Inc. Team