In partnership with RCLF and the California State Library, the Redwood City Public Library offers scholarships to the Career Online High School program, allowing qualified students to earn a high school diploma with individual career path guidance. Each student is paired with an online academic coach, who assists with career guidance, evaluating performance, and resources. The program is tuition-free. RCLF provides all books and other materials, along with tuition, and the California State Library Association matches tuition funds. Last year the foundation raised $20,000 for the program, and the Library Association matched $12,000.
In October, we celebrated Maria Avalos as she graduated from the program. Maria’s dedication and commitment to earning her diploma were inspiring. She finished three months ahead of schedule. Maria learned about the program from a poster she saw when she took her 9-year-old son to the library. She inquired about it, received the information, and signed up. While enrolled in the program, she spent about 4 hours a day working through the online instruction, 4 to 5 days a week. When she got stuck in math, she emailed one of the coaches who provided the support she needed.
Maria said “This program and the people behind it are amazing. I totally recommend Career Online HS to anyone who had to leave school early for personal reasons. It keeps you going and keeps your dreams alive.” Today, Maria is taking online computer courses and English classes at Cañada College and is working toward her career path. Congratulations to Maria for her achievements!
With the support of our major donors Cargill and Atkinson Foundation, we have five more Career Online High School students working toward their high school diplomas, with three additional scholarships available this year.
