Academy of Hope (AoH) had the pleasure of hosting KIPP DC and Maya Angelou Public Charter School high school students at our Ward 5 campus.
The trip introduced AoH as an option after students earn their high school diploma, either as a prerequisite for higher education or as an alternative. Understanding that the cost of school can create a roadblock in educational goals, AoH emphasized the privilege of offering FREE workforce development programs to D.C. residents.
The Enrollment team began with an informational session detailing the workforce programs offered at AoH, providing certificates for in-demand industries like healthcare and IT. Various teams joined after, discussing the different student support services, college and career opportunities, and volunteers readily available to help learners thrive.
Students then met AoH alum Myesha Taylor, who shared her story of returning to school as inspiration. She expressed how her hard work and determination were recognized by Academy of Hope, as AoH offered her a paid intern position with the Hope Forward program. Hope Forward is AoH’s alumni program that provides graduates career counseling and empowers them to seek their full potential. As an intern, Myesha assists Program Coordinator Tiah Lormejuste with organizing and executing lessons for members.
Afterwards, students split into groups to tour the building. On the tours, students had the opportunity to ask questions, meet additional staff, and shadow workforce learners in the classroom. In the Certified Nursing Assistant(CNA) lab, students watched as learners prepared for their upcoming exam, practicing nursing techniques on dummies. Over in the CompTIA classroom, students learned how to put a computer together from two IT trainees. Students then left with swag to commemorate their trip.
At AoH, learners have faced challenges such as work, family priorities, and systemic barriers that have stood in their way. Their children are affected by these obstacles, too. By introducing AoH to high schoolers early, we can help lighten the burden and inform them of their educational options to prepare them for a future towards economic mobility.