by Lecester Johnson
CEO, Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School
As the CEO of Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that education has on adult learners. At Academy of Hope, we believe that learning is a lifelong journey. For many adults, a second chance at education serves as a gateway to economic stability, personal growth, and stronger communities.
Need for Adult Education
The necessity for adult education in the U.S. has never been more pressing. The 2023 Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) revealed that American adults continue to face challenges in literacy and numeracy. Specifically, 44% of U.S. adults aged 16 to 65 performed at Level 3 or above in literacy, while only 38% reached the same proficiency levels in numeracy.
According to the 2022 American Community Survey, 9% of adults aged 25 and older had less than a high school diploma or equivalent, and 28% had high school as their highest level of school completed. In numerical terms, this translates to approximately 18 million adults without a high school diploma and about 56 million whose highest educational attainment is a high school diploma.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2023, individuals without a high school diploma faced an unemployment rate of 5.6% and had median weekly earnings of $708, whereas those with a bachelor’s degree had an unemployment rate of 2.2% and median weekly earnings of $1,493.
At Academy of Hope, we encounter these challenges daily—parents striving to support their children, native Washingtonians striving for new opportunities, and workers eager to acquire skills for career advancement. We understand that access to high-quality education expands opportunities, benefiting not only individuals but entire families.
Washington, D.C.: A Leader in Adult Charter Schools
Washington, D.C. serves as a model for addressing the educational needs of adult learners. The District is home to nine adult-serving public charter schools that offer pathways to high school diplomas, career training, and English language proficiency. These schools provide flexible, student-centered programs tailored to the diverse needs of adult learners, many of whom balance work, family, and other responsibilities.
At Academy of Hope, we take pride in contributing to this ecosystem of opportunity. Through personalized instruction, workforce training, and comprehensive support services, we empower learners to develop the skills and confidence necessary to achieve their goals. Our mission extends beyond education; it’s about fostering empowerment, economic mobility, and breaking the cycle of poverty for future generations.
A Growing National Movement
Encouragingly, other states are recognizing the value of adult charter schools and are beginning to implement similar models. For instance, Texas recently approved its first adult charter school under a 2023 law, marking a significant milestone in expanding educational opportunities for adult learners. Similarly, Arkansas has considered the establishment of adult education public charter schools, reflecting a broader trend of states exploring innovative solutions to adult education.
As of 2021-2022, charter schools operate in 46 states and the District of Columbia, with an estimated 7,800 public charter schools serving approximately 3.7 million students. While not all of these are adult-focused, the growing interest in adult charter schools signifies a promising shift towards inclusive education that addresses the needs of learners at all stages of life.
International Perspectives: South Korea’s Commitment to Adult Education
Globally, countries like South Korea have long recognized the importance of adult education. The South Korean government has implemented various lifelong learning initiatives, including adult literacy programs and vocational education, to support adults who did not complete formal schooling. These programs often offer evening classes, allowing adults to balance education with other responsibilities. Such international models underscore the value of providing flexible educational opportunities to adult learners, reinforcing the need for similar initiatives within the United States.
A Proven Model for Success
I have had the honor of witnessing countless students enter our doors and leave with renewed hope and purpose. Whether earning their GED, enrolling in workforce training, or preparing for college, our learners exemplify the resilience and determination that define adult education.
By collaborating with businesses, policymakers, and community partners, we ensure that our programs align with industry demands, positioning our graduates for success in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. We firmly believe that investing in adult education is not only the right thing to do but also a strategic investment in our workforce, economy, communities and global competitiveness.
A Call to Action
We must continue to support adult education as an essential component of workforce development and social mobility. I urge policymakers, business leaders, and community advocates to invest in adult learners and expand opportunities for those historically underserved by traditional education systems.
At Academy of Hope, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing every adult learner with the opportunity to transform their future through education. If you or someone you know could benefit from our programs, I encourage you to reach out. Together, we can build a brighter, more equitable future for all.
