“When I heard about the program, I saw myself completing high school and at the same time getting the opportunity to learn about what I'd love to do!!” (Haydee Barrita, COHS Graduate)
The January 23rd Redwood City Council meeting recognized three graduates from the Redwood City Public Library’s Career Online High School (COHS). Supported by the Redwood City Library Foundation, Project Read, and the California State Library, COHS offers adults the opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma and career counseling by pairing them with online academic coaches who provide individual guidance. A limited number of scholarships are available to qualified adult learners who want to expand their career opportunities, prepare for workforce entry, and continue their education. Participants have 18 months to complete the curriculum, usually accomplished while they are working and raising families. Career Online High School is different from taking a GED exam. Graduates receive an accredited high school diploma rather than a certificate of equivalency. In addition, COHS provides ongoing coaching and support instead of the independent study model of the GED exam, and career-related learning modules rather than strictly focusing on academic knowledge. These are January’s hardworking graduates:
HAYDEE BARRITA is a mother of three who wanted to pursue a high school diploma to ensure a better future for her and her family. She studied Child Care Development as her career track elective. “[Investing] all this time I can say is totally worth it!! And I am more than happy to be able to provide a better future to my kids!”
AROLDO AGUSTIN ZECENA is married with three children. His wife is also a COHS graduate and her success in the program, as well as his children, inspired him to get his diploma. He studied Food and Hospitality and hopes to pursue college classes some day.
Aroldo said at the end of the program: “I gained more knowledge and opened my mind to discover more paths. I want to learn more and try to practice all that I have learned through this program. I want to teach my kids to finish what they start and to not give up. I am planning to take some English courses online and some computer lessons.”
MORAYMA QUEZADAS is currently a library employee who joined the program to inspire her youngest sibling, to further her own knowledge, and to accomplish her goals. She hopes to go to college some day and pursue a career in the medical field. She said this at the start of the program: “After high school, I spent most of my time working or helping to care for the youngest child in my family. A couple years have gone by and
this child is about to start middle school. Seeing friends pursuing their goals has inspired me to continue my education.”
We congratulate all the graduates and wish them well in pursuing their desired careers!! Make a donation to help us provide more COHS scholarships.