South Bend-area adults who have never received a high school diploma will soon have a new option available: a tuition-free, fast-track program funded by Goodwill LEADS.

The Excel Center will initially serve 350 students wishing to earn an Indiana Core 40 diploma, which is different than a GED or high school equivalency program. Students will complete eight week sessions to earn credits necessary to graduate, depending on the levels of education they have already finished.

Students will also be paired with a life coach to help guide them through their academic programs. On-site daycare will be provided for children age 12 and under, and public transportation assistance will be available as well. Instead of electives such as music or gym, students will work to complete dual credits for college or career certifications.

“There are 40,000 adults within a 10 mile radius of South Bend who do not have a high school diploma,” said Randy Beachy, the executive director of the Excel Center. “We know there are barriers, perceived barriers by students.”

The idea for the center originated in Indianapolis approximately five years ago. The Excel Center there has successfully graduated 1,000 students since. According to Goodwill, students who earned a high school diploma increased their pay by an average of $9,500 a year.

Online enrollment is expected to start this week, with classes beginning in September. For more information about the Excel Center, visit excelatgoodwill.org.

Source: WNDU