For adults who left high school early, going to college and starting a career can seem out of reach.
In response, Ivy Tech Community College’s Valparaiso campus, in partnership with Neighbors’ Educational Opportunities (NEO) is offering a process for adults to finish a high school diploma while enrolling in college. Diploma Plus NWI is a program serving students ages 22 and older who need fewer than 12 high school credits to finish a high school diploma.
Diploma Plus NWI aims to provide concurrent enrollment for college courses, which will help adult students earn both college completion and a high school diploma. The program aims to reach some of the 53,000 adults in northwest Indiana who did not finish their high school diploma.
“NEO continuously seeks ways to create educational opportunities and bright futures for adults in northwest Indiana,” Rebecca Reiner, executive director for NEO, said. “By removing barriers and opening doors, we can create real change - not just for the individual, but for the entire region.”
The Diploma Plus NWI program will be offered for the second time this fall at Ivy Tech’s Valparaiso Campus.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with NEO and offer options to our fellow citizens to earn college credits while completing high school credentials,” Aco Sikoski, campus chancellor for Ivy Tech’s Valparaiso campus, said. “It will help candidates achieve their career aspirations in a shorter period of time.”
Enrollment for fall is currently open at both NEO and Ivy Tech Community College with classes beginning at the end of August. Students wishing to learn more about the Diploma Plus NWI program should visit NEO’s website at neoadulted.org/diplomaplus or email NEO counselor Christina Rose at crose@neoadulted.org.
