Cincinnati State and regional partners awarded $250,000 planning grant for Ohio Adult Diploma Program
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 16, 2015
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Dr. Lawra Baumann
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Cincinnati State and regional partners awarded $250,000 planning grant for Ohio Adult Diploma Program
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College and its regional partners have been awarded a $250,000 planning grant from the State of Ohio Department of Education to plan the Southwest Ohio Adult Diploma program, a new alternative offered by the State to help adults ages 22 or older earn their high school diplomas and train for in-demand careers simultaneously.
“We are excited to add these community colleges to this important work because we know the partnerships with high schools and career-tech centers will provide targeted opportunities to reach high school dropouts and get them into the workforce with in-demand skills,” said Richard A. Ross, superintendent of public instruction, Ohio Department of Education.
Cincinnati State, Cincinnati Public Schools ABLE Program, Mercy Neighborhood Ministries, and the Southwest Ohio Region Workforce Investment Board have already initiated local planning for the Adult Diploma Program which the partners intend to offer in July 2016.
The Partners will utilize the planning grant to convene local stakeholders, particularly prospective adults interested in earning the Ohio Adult Diploma, to plan how to best recruit potential students, assess their current knowledge and address potential challenges such as illiteracy. They also will engage industry leaders to determine the most in-demand jobs in the region and identify the types of certifications graduates need to qualify for those positions. Dr. Rea Waldon has been hired to coordinate the Southwest Ohio Partners and their planning efforts through June 2016. Dr. Waldon’s diverse experience includes workforce development, higher education and banking, as well as essential skills in strategic planning, project development and capacity building.
“Cincinnati State sees the Ohio Adult Diploma program as a much needed option for adults without a high school diploma or its equivalent in Southwest Ohio seeking employment and economic self-sufficiency,” offers Cincinnati State President Monica Posey. “It is a privilege to work with our Partners, all of whom have extensive experience working with adults and likewise, appreciate the potential impact the Adult Diploma option can have on improving the lives of thousands in Southwest Ohio.”
State data shows that Ohio adults without high school diplomas are twice as likely to live in poverty as those with diplomas. In Ohio especially, data shows that high school level career-technical education programs are effective in preparing students for success in college and careers. More information about the Ohio Adult Diploma can be found at http://education.ohio.gov/Media/Media-Releases/Adults-Can-Get-A-High-Sch…
More information about specific plans for the Southwest Ohio Adult Diploma will be forthcoming in early 2016.
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