About Academy of Hope

Programs & Services | Student & Local Statistics | Staff |Funders | Student Accomplishments

History, Mission and Goals

The Academy of Hope provides educational empowerment to DC adults. We help students earn high school credentials, improve their math and reading skills, and learn how to use and apply computer technologies.

Hope has been at the very heart of the Academy since its formation in 1985. It's what gave two teachers nerve to launch the school. It continues to drive our staff, our many volunteers, and especially our students. One of our first GED graduates described the importance of hope in this way:

"Someone had given me a list of schools. I was looking it over, saw the word 'hope,' and remember thinking, 'If I'm going to get my GED, that's what I am going to need."

The Academy of Hope strives to give students an environment of compassion, acceptance, and encouragement so their hopes and dreams become reality.

MISSION

The mission of the Academy of Hope is to provide a community of hope and opportunity through high quality education and job skills training to low income and at-risk adults in Washington, DC and to offer students learning opportunities at all levels.

The Academy of Hope accomplishes its mission through:

  • A high quality, nurturing, individualized, student-centered learning environment

  • Adult basic education leading to improved literacy, the GED certificate, other high school diploma programs, and computer training

  • Job readiness preparation that includes computer skills, pre-employment workshops, and resume and interview preparation

  • Commitment to: volunteer focus, maximum access to those who need Academy of Hope the most, student-based outcomes, and the formation of partnerships with organizations that will help to further the Academy's goals.

The Academy serves:

  • At-risk adults with limited income or no income

  • Under-educated individuals

  • Individuals who lack the educational skills for employment

  • Individuals who are seeking educational and economic opportunity and stability