Mission: PAX Learning Center, a 501(c)3, provides teachers and tutors to youth and adults to support their educational goals.
Vision: PAX Learning Center will be the premier resource for educational support and services in SW Washington.
PAX Learning Center, a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit, was founded because there exists a real need to aid a segment of the population that is not receiving the necessary care regarding education, life and job skills. We want to aid those who fall into a low socioeconomic status and those without a high school diploma.
The founders of PAX have over 20 years of combined experience working Refugees, Immigrants and with those who did not finish high school, young and older students who are in need of tutoring, and those who are English language learners. We care about each student individually, they come first, all others second. It is all about you!
We operate by these core values: Empathy, Flexibility, Humility, Passion, Patience, Resilience and Responsibility.
GED Program
PAX/NEXT GED Class (16-24 yrs. old)
Requires enrollment in both programs
Contact NEXT Success for more information on how to enroll.
Evening GED Class (Ages 16+)
(Monday/Wednesday/Friday: 6pm-8pm)
Location: Please contact GED Department for more information.
New Location Coming Soon!
Alex has been a program manager for Clark College in the past and is an effective leader. Alex is committed to the outcomes of each student.
Paul has taught for 17 years, working with people from around the world. Paul cares deeply about the outcome of each student.
Christy's connection to PAX began through her position at NEXT Success, where she quickly became acquainted with many of the afternoon GED students. As a mother of four children in their 20s, she enjoys engaging in conversation with the students and supporting them in their educational pursuits.
Christy's background encompasses corporate operations, environmental science, marketing, and teaching. She views her role as a PAX board member as an honor and is excited about the potential to impact diverse communities through future initiatives.
Anything one wishes to learn can be achieved with discipline and internal drive. This belief motivates Viktor to support others on their learning journeys. At PAX, he exemplifies the conviction that dedication and effort can overcome any challenge. Viktor appreciates PAX's personalized approach to education and its commitment to empowering students. As a software engineer, Viktor also dedicates his free time to supporting Ukrainian software developers by connecting them with small businesses in the U.S., benefiting both communities.
Anna currently works in clinical research at OHSU and has many connections in the behavioral health and recovery communities in Vancouver. She is dedicated to increasing access to education; a mission that is rooted in her personal experiences working in mental health treatment and criminal justice.
Caroline Adams joined PAX Learning Center in 2023, driven by a strong desire to give back to the Clark County community. Initially starting as a tutor, she soon discovered that her expertise was best applied in supporting PAX through organizational improvement initiatives. With over 15 years of experience in program and project management, Caroline brings valuable insights from her work with international development organizations such as the World Bank, the Australian Government, and the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. As an Asian American Pacific Islander, she is proud to support an organization dedicated to meeting the needs of Vancouver's migrant community.
Alec Koppes joined the PAX board in April 2025, drawn to its mission of expanding access to education for non-traditional students. Coming from a family of teachers, he felt a deep connection to PAX’s work. Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Alec recently moved to Vancouver and is passionate about making a meaningful impact in his new community. He works in human capital consulting and brings experience in strategy, project management, and organizational infrastructure to his role on the board.
Coy is an accomplished realtor in Portland and former President of a small corporation. She has dedicated her life to helping people in many different arenas.
Alan's journey from LeSueur, MN, to Pax Learning Centers in Vancouver, WA, has been fueled by a deep passion for education and service. At 16, his year in Argentina as a Rotary International Exchange student ignited a lifelong interest in culture and languages. This led him to earn degrees in Biology and Spanish and to further his studies in Peru. After a fulfilling career in optometry, Alan retired in 2018 and moved closer to his family in Vancouver. Seeking to give back, he joined Pax Learning Centers in 2020 as a GED math tutor and mentor. Alan dedicates hours each week to tutoring, inspired by his students' creativity and hard work. His story reflects the transformative power of education and the impact of service on the community.
Miranda received her Bachelor of Science, with a focus on Outdoor Education, from Appalachian State University, followed by a rewarding career in Environmental Education over the following decade. Miranda now works for Evergreen Habitat for Humanity as their volunteer coordinator, bringing volunteers from all backgrounds and walks of life together to create affordable home ownership opportunities. She is excited to return to her roots in education, and is honored to help further the mission of PAX Learning Center as a member of the board.