The Adult Education Department at Haywood Community College offers assistance for adults with achieving their Adult High School Diploma. The diploma is issued locally through a partnership between the college and Haywood County Schools.

Through careful evaluation of transcripts and an interview with staff, a determination is made regarding the number of high school credits needed and course of study necessary to complete the requirements for an Adult High School diploma. The Diploma is honored and accepted at community colleges, most private colleges, many universities, workforce development programs, and by employers as being equal to any other high school diploma earned across the nation.

According to Carroll Vernon, Lead Instructor, students complete their Adult High school diploma for a variety of reasons from better job opportunities or to help children and grandchildren with homework to just doing it for themselves. “I enjoy working with people who really want to get their education. It is very rewarding.  Everyone deserves the opportunity to learn. When students start our program, they see that they can do this.”

The Adult Education department at HCC is a diverse learning community with a student-centered focus designed to engage, motivate, empower and encourage success toward completion of an Adult High School diploma. The department is committed to establishing a partnership between the student and institution. The cornerstones of this partnership are rooted in shared goal-setting, collaboration and communication.

Traditionally, class sizes are small with students studying at their own pace. Instructors strive to create a nurturing and supportive classroom environment where individual progress and successes are celebrated. Faculty and Staff are available to provide students with the educational tools necessary to meet their learning goals.

Lynn Jefferys, who teaches remedial math and reading in the Adult High School program, says “I use a style of teaching that removes the fear of math that many students have developed over the years. I delight in seeing the students succeed.”

Students may enroll in day, evening, or online courses throughout the semester. Courses are competency-based and there are no costs for tuition, books or materials.

Instructor Bill Douglas enjoys seeing how getting an education changes these students’ entire life. “I would not have had so many opportunities throughout my career without an education and I want to see the same for these students. Education is the key. It will make your life better.”

For more information about Adult High School opportunities, please contact the Adult High School Recruiter by calling (828) 565-4182 or the Administrative Office at (828) 627-4648.