By now, most of you are aware of the infinite opportunities for free entertainment, information, and education that come with an MCPL library card. You probably aren’t surprised to learn that with your library card, you can download your favorite magazines onto your phone or tablet, find books in Spanish, French, Amharic, or other world languages at many of our branches, or even register for a free class on, say, the fundamentals of accounting though Gale Courses or Lynda.com. But what if we told you that your public library card also offers the opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma? Free. That’s right. You can now earn a high school diploma, free with your MCPL library card.
In 2016, MCPL began offering Career Online High School, a nationally accredited, online, career-based high school completion program, to support positive change in our community and offer the opportunity of a second chance to adults seeking to complete their high school education. We’re thrilled to report that since launching, 15 students have accomplished this goal, obtaining accredited high school diplomas through our program. These students leave the program with new confidence, skills, and knowledge, and expanded opportunities. We’re so proud of them!
The Career Online High School program is designed to reconnect adults to learning with a built-in student support system (students get ongoing guidance from assigned academic coaches) and a curriculum that lets students master skills at their own pace. Since classes are web-based, students have anytime-access to courses, ideal for those with jobs and families.
Learning takes place in our libraries every day through online courses, maker sessions, and various programs for kids , teens , adults, and seniors. Career Online High School students will experience MCPL’s supportive learning environment, replete with homework help, quiet study rooms, wireless internet access, desktop computers, and laptops for in-library use.
Applying is an easy, three-step process. In order to be considered for a free seat in the program, applicants must:
- Complete an online self-assessment.
- Successfully pass a two-week prerequisite course.
- Interview with MCPL’s enrollment team.
To learn more, contact us today at: mcpl.cohs@montgomerycountymd.gov or 240 777-0036.
Labels: Education, Library Services, Programs and Events, Workforce Development
