About Academy of Hope

About Academy of Hope

The Academy provides a variety of programs and services to meet the needs of our adult learners.
Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes: To pass the GED exam, a student needs at least a 10th grade reading and math level. Students often aim to earn a high school equivalent degree but are not prepared for GED classes. Other ABE students simply wish to sharpen their skills-some already hold a high school or equivalent degree. The ABE (sometimes referred to as pre-GED) program provides basic skills enhancement in reading, writing, and math. The goal is to equip ABE students with the skills needed to advance to the GED level or to meet other educational goals. Click here for more info on ABE Classes

General Educational Development (GED) Program: Classes in the GED program are aimed at helping students pass the eight-hour GED examination and to earn a GED certificate. Classes in all subject areas found on the GED exam are offered each week: math, science, writing, social studies, and literature. Click here for more info on GED Classes

External Diploma Program (EDP): This innovative program provides adult learners with an alternative to the GED exam for earning a DC high school diploma. Rather than taking pre-scheduled classes and the GED examination, students receive credit for significant life experiences and study one-on-one with tutors. They take a series of diagnostic tests in reading, writing, and math and demonstrate mastery in 65 areas or "competencies." This program is particularly useful for students with full-time jobs, as they determine the schedule for tutoring sessions.
Click here for more info on EDP Classes

Computer Training: The Academy's computer classes are much in demand. They range from basic introduction of computer technology and its use, to advanced application of Word and Excel. These six-week classes are held in the Academy of Hope's on-site computer lab. Click here for more info on Computer Classes

Workplace Literacy Project: An Adult Basic Education program that provides adult learners with training in classroom settings at the learners' worksite. General curriculum content includes reading, writing, numeracy, oral communication, reasoning and problem solving, and other literacy skills. A unique feature of the program is that specific learning goals are developed by students and their supervisors in collaboration with project staff and address particular workplace competencies identified as critical to increased productivity and job proficiency. Academy of Hope partners with Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) on this project. For more information on workplace literacy, contact Steve Moellering at wpl@aohdc.org

Additional Services

In addition to specific educational programs, the Academy provides a range of services to help students complete their courses or meet personal needs. These include: ·

Tutoring: One-on-one tutoring is available for students who read below a sixth grade level, require more individualized instruction, or who are preparing for special tests such as those required for professional certification. We also provide open tutorial sessions where all students can obtain help with coursework. ·

Referrals to Community Resources: The Academy maintains strong links with other community-based organizations and refers students needing help with childcare, medical needs, recovery and addiction issues, employment, and housing. These include Jubilee jobs, Byte Back, Department of Employment services, Jubilee Housing, etc. ·

Workshops: We offer workshops that complement classroom activities as well as providing extra help for job hunters. Workshop topics have ranged from resume writing and interview preparation to tips for taking the GED exam and completion of income tax forms.

Finally, we promote a community environment through social activities and special events. Birthday celebrations, graduation ceremonies, and field trips help broaden our students' experiences while nurturing understanding and connections among students, staff, and volunteers.