On June 11, we celebrated the Class of 2026 at Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School’s (AoH) Graduation and Certified Nursing Aid (CNA) Pinning Ceremony at THEARC in Washington, DC. The unforgettable event recognized 55 learners earning their high school diplomas and 141 earning workforce certifications in in-demand industries— the largest workforce graduating class in AoH history.
The graduation theme, “We Are UnSTOPPABLE,” was a testament to AoH learners’ grit and determination— the driving force behind their achievement. Despite unexpected challenges throughout the school year impacting learners and their families, while balancing work, parenting, caregiving, and life responsibilities, AoH learners remained focused and motivated to reach their academic and career goals.
Learn more about this year’s graduating class and their accomplishments:
High School Graduates
The Class of 2026 high school diploma program celebrated 37 GED and 18 National External Diploma Program (NEDP) graduates.
This year, AoH high school graduates earned their diplomas in record-breaking time. Two NEDP graduates completed the program the fastest in AoH history— the first being Margene W.A. in under two months, then Princess C. in 12 days. Over a third of GED graduates earned their diploma within a month.
In the GED program, 11 graduates received at least one College-Ready distinction on one of their subject-level exams (science, social studies, math, and language arts). Of those 11, two earned College-Ready and College Credit distinctions. These achievements are a reflection of their dedication to building knowledge while finishing what they started.
Family was a huge motivator for this year’s graduating class. Graduates Brittney S., Myeshia M., and Jasmine W. began the program with a goal of earning their high school diploma before their children, and accomplished it. Sibling duos also participated in AoH together, inspiring each other to work hard and finish in the same year.
Graduation speakers Sean R. and Indya M. even reflected on the power of family support during their speeches. In fact, Sean R. mentioned how his wife earned her high school diploma from AoH before him, and how she encouraged him to do the same to provide a better future for themselves and their three children.
Workforce Graduates
AoH’s workforce cohort has nearly tripled in size since its establishment in 2018. This year, we celebrated a record-breaking number of workforce graduates, 141 across IT and healthcare training programs.
IT recognized 41 graduates who earned 48 credentials in CompTIA Tech+, A+, Network+, Security+, and/or Project Management. Of the 41, several have already found positions in the industry or have progressed their education. For instance, CompTIA A+ graduate and Workforce Graduate Speaker Gina C. graduated summa cum laude from The Catholic University of America in addition to earning her credential. Now, she is pursuing a Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity Analytics at George Washington University.
Healthcare saw 100 graduates who completed Nursing Assistant Training (CNA), Phlebotomy Technician Training (PTT), or Medical Billing & Coding Training. Healthcare graduates were recognized at the CNA Pinning Ceremony, a tradition celebrating the transition from student to healthcare professional. Graduates will take their exams to become an officially licensed professional in their chosen field later this month.
Outside of training and clinical hours, 20 healthcare graduates applied for the DC Health Apprenticeship Program for the 2026-2027 program year. If selected, the program will continue to prepare AoH healthcare graduates for high-demand careers in the industry.
Conclusion
We are extremely proud of the Class of 2026. Whether it was to set an example for their children, to create financial stability, or simply to prove that they can do hard things, each graduate knew what it took to show up. They are an example that it is never too late to continue learning, growing, and molding into the person they want to be.