TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute an agreement with the California State Library to facilitate a Career Online High School Pilot Program at Long Beach Public Libraries for a period of two years. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The Department of Library Services has been invited by the California State Library to participate in a Career Online High School (COHS) Pilot Program at Long Beach Public Libraries for a period of two years. COHS is an AdvancED/Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredited program that enables students to earn their high school diplomas while gaining real-world career skills. COHS employs an innovative curriculum that is aligned to the National Common Core Standards (NCCS), the convenience of an anytime-anywhere online learning platform, and interactive content that engages adult learners. This agreement will bring non-traditional and/or adult learners back into the educational system and prepare them for jobs in growing sectors of the economy. Students graduate with the tools to take the next step in their careers or career-education.
Established in 2011, the COHS has a proven track record. Studies show that COHS graduates generally see a 50 percent increase in earnings within 12 months of completing the program. Additionally, high school diplomas offer far better economic outcomes than GEDs. On average, those with a high school diploma can expect to earn approximately $1,500 more per month than those with GEDs. Public libraries in the cities of San Diego, Sacramento and Los Angeles currently offer this program and all are advocates of its effectiveness for participants.
The Department of Library Services will screen prospective students to determine if they meet basic criteria (age 19 and over; resident of the jurisdiction served by the library; have a library account in good standing). Candidates complete an online self-assessment and a two-week prerequisite course, designed by COHS, to determine if they w...
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