Graduating high school is monumental. It is an accomplishment that you show pride in the rest of your life. The day you throw your hat in the air and celebrate everything you have accomplished is something to celebrate. Whether you go on to college, technical school, or a career – that diploma is something you need. Unfortunately, not everyone has that opportunity while in high school. It isn’t for lack of trying – there are many reasons young men and women are unable to graduate.
Do you know someone who became a mother at a young age, had to choose between school and helping put food on the table for their family, or had an illness and just could not catch up and obtain the credits to graduate? Please reach out to them. Tell them it is not too late and they do not have to get their diploma alone!
Data shows that adults without a diploma tend to work multiple jobs in the least stable positions, earn less money than high school graduates, and experience a lower quality of life. In fact, recent data shows that nearly 30 percent of adults with household incomes at or below the federal poverty line do not have a high school credential.
Going back to high school as an adult is, of course, different than when you were young. Many adults that may have struggled in high school thrive when obtaining their high school diploma or equivalent as an adult. Why? Because as an adult, you are more mature and they realize the value of achieving your educational goals.
We as a community – neighbors, colleagues, friends, and family – need to be celebrating those who have received their diploma and inspiring those who have the desire to take the challenge! The AdCouncil and FinishYourDiploma.org have launched a new campaign to celebrate the adults who have finished their diploma and to inspire those who feel like they have been alone or did not know where to turn to find resources and tools for free adult education in their community.
We want to get the word out about the network of thousands of free adult education classes available throughout the country. In most communities, local nonprofits and literacy centers are able to offer free classes to help adults prepare for the GED, TASC, or HiSET high school equivalency tests. If we can get people in the door, these centers will provide support and guidance on the path towards higher education. For many adults, earning a high school equivalency diploma is the first step toward a college degree, better job, or brighter future.
Since the campaign initially launched in 2010, Finish Your Diploma has helped more than 800,000 adults in all 50 states find free test-prep classes in their area.
Join the #HatsOffToYou Social Media Campaign – One thing that unites graduates in the U.S. is the tossing of a cap to celebrate their tremendous achievement. The AdCouncil and FinishYourDiploma.org are asking people to toss a hat in support of adult graduates and to inspire others to get their diplomas. Simply film a short video or Instagram Boomerang, or take a picture of yourself tossing any hat you have available. Use the hashtag #HatsOffToYou and tag @FinishYourDiploma on Instagram. Example: I’m tossing my hat in honor of the thousands of adults who will receive their diplomas this year, #HatsOffToYou @FinishYourDiploma
