We acknowledge the dedication, perseverance, and hard work that goes into finishing high school as an adult.
Join us in celebrating the 15,000 students who overcame hurdles and educational traumas; balanced work, family, and life responsibilities; and put in the hard work to fulfill their dreams of becoming high school graduates.
“We are so excited to hit this major milestone of 15,000 graduates,” said Dr. Howard Liebman, Smart Horizons Career Online Education (SHCOE) Founder and District Superintendent. “For these adults, the program is the next step in their education and career. The impact is huge—beyond individual lives, this affects and empowers families and communities.”
The graduates will be celebrated in SHCOE’s first virtual biannual graduation ceremony on September 7, which will also specifically recognize Career Online High School (COHS) graduates from January to June 2023.
In addition, the inaugural Dr. Rob Miller Scholarship Award will be presented to a graduate during the ceremony. A trailblazer and innovator in the field of online education, Dr. Miller helped design the SHCOE school district and learning platform, which has touched thousands of lives. The $1000 award will be granted twice a year to a graduate nominated by their Academic Coach for persistence, perseverance, and dedication to earning their high school diploma.
“This is a fitting way to pass on Dr. Miller’s legacy,” said Wendy Kauffman, SHCOE’s Chief Operating Officer. “He helped provide the gift of education to so many people. This will help our graduates continue their educational journeys.”
A leader in adult high school education, COHS is delivered online through public libraries, private corporations, and other organizations, often at no cost to the student. Individual academic coaching and a high level of support help students stay motivated and on track. The curriculum includes a career certificate in one of ten fields.
“The program eliminates some of the classic barriers to education for adults who dropped out previously—access, cost, relevancy, and support,” said Dr. Liebman. “We meet students where they are and help them get where they want to be.”
For many students, this means postsecondary education, with 76% of graduates planning to go on to college and vocational training programs. For others it means new jobs and promotions, and for many it means a renewed sense of self-worth and accomplishment.
Join us in applauding these 15,000 adults on earning their high school diplomas!