AoH News

Adult Education Programs face Federal Funding Cuts; Advocates Lobby Lawmakers for Help

October 9, 2025

The Academy of Hope’s programs face uncertainty as the Trump administration continues cutting Department of Education funding.

Southeast DC school hosts 'Adopt-A-Block Clean-Up' in Ward 8

September 4, 2025

Scores of DC residents associated with the Academy of Hope hit the streets of Southeast just outside this adult public charter school to clean up their neighborhood and come together before classes begin Monday.

DC's Academy of Hope Celebrates 100+ Graduates

June 17, 2025

This year the academy had 135 graduates. This free program helps people graduate high school and earn college credits. Watch the wusa9 video.

America’s Literacy Crisis and Its Impact on Democracy

Lecester Johnson, Academy of Hope CEO joins adult learners, tutors and educators on the Humankind on Public Radio podcast to discuss how widespread low level of literacy affects the functioning of American democracy.

D.C. Voices: Early Signals for Enrollment in School Year 2025-26

May 21, 2025

Public school enrollment in D.C. has grown for three consecutive years, including a 1 percent increase in school year 2024-25. Read the full article.

D.C.-Based Academy of Hope Seeks to Meet Nursing Demands

June 22, 2022

As the latest graduates of Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School’s relatively new CNA program, some of these students carry with them experiences they said give them firsthand knowledge of what District residents experience when they enter the emergency room

Adult Learners Drive D.C. School Enrollment Boom

May 6, 2023

School leaders credit the surge to students’ economic struggles and an expansion of virtual learning options.

NEDP Advisor/Assessor, Annette Banks, Is in the News!

February 17, 2021

Academy of Hope’s very own, Annette Banks,  was featured in the February 2021 edition of NEDP News that was distributed to the NEDP staff at 89 agencies in nine states. We are so proud of Annette! 

Communication from Lecester to Students Regarding Re-opening:

July 31, 2020

Dear AoH Students,

I hope you and your families are continuing to stay safe and healthy! We are looking forward to starting the new school year on August 17!

Of course, the safety of students, staff and volunteers continues to be our topmost priority, and I am reaching out today to provide an important update to our plans for the start of the school year: this fall, all classes will take place online. You’ll be contacted soon with more information about laptop pick up and in-person testing dates.

We had hoped to offer a hybrid program (some in person instruction), but due to increasing rates of COVID-19 infections, we do not believe that in person instruction is safe for the AoH Community. Nonetheless, we are committed to providing you with quality education and programs, and we are eager to support you and your education. Here’s how we plan to do that:

  1. All students will receive a laptop and internet access to allow you to participate in online classest. 
  2. Our Teachers are working on lesson plans that are accessible for all students and will help you achieve your goals.
  3. Our Student Support team is available to connect you to local and federal resources that will enable you to continue your education.
  4. Our Career and Workforce team is ready to assist you in taking the next step toward your career or college of choice. 

Finally, I assure you that we will do our best to keep you informed about any changes that may be necessary in the months ahead. Please stay in touch with us, and we are committed to doing the same. 

Together, we will have a safe and successful school year!

Warmly,

Lecester

Important Message from our CEO, Lecester Johnson regarding COVID-19:

April 22, 2020

Dear AoH Community –

We are continuing to monitor the latest guidance from Mayor Bowser and health experts with regards to the COVID-19 pandemic. With that information in mind, AoH began its spring term on April 20, 2020 and will continue distant learning until June 17. Some students may choose to end on May 29 given their personal situations. 

Please remember that your teachers and student support specialists will reach out to help you navigate distance learning. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact your teacher or student support at (202) 269-6623.

Thank you for your understanding and for continuing to be part of our community. Together, we will overcome this challenge safely.

Take good care,
Lecester

March 23, 2020

Dear AoH Community –

In line with guidance from Mayor Bowser and health officials, AoH has made the difficult and important decision to operate with the following modified schedule due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic:

  • AoH is hosting a remote/distance learning program for the remainder of winter term (through April 2)
  • AoH will keep its scheduled spring break from April 6 – April 10 and will be closed for all staff and students during that time
  • AoH will begin the spring term on April 20 with remote/distance learning that week and will resume in-person classes on April 27

I appreciate your cooperation and understanding. Together, we will overcome this challenge safely. 

Take good care,
Lecester

Become a Learner

Academy of Hope offers FREE programs to DC residents over the age of 18. Enroll today and begin your journey toward your education and career goals!