Kayla made it all the way. She was about to finish her Senior year and graduate from high school in 2015 after completing all the courses and credits needed. She could see the finish line just ahead of her. But, just as she was getting ready to cross, she took the required ACT exam and fell two points short of the score needed on the Reading portion to earn her diploma. Devastated, she ended her senior year without a diploma and was too disheartened to take it again.

Nine years later, Kayla decided she should try one more time to finish her diploma and contacted the Literacy Alliance to enroll in GED prep classes. As the Literacy Alliance staff discussed her goals and learned more about her educational history they realized there might be another option. Working with Duval County Public Schools, they determined that Kayla could still take the ACT, and if she passed it, she would be approved for a diploma from her original high school. Kayla’s goal changed from getting her GED to trying to take the ACT again!

While working full time she also attended a small group class in her neighborhood, which made it convenient. Within a few months, her literacy skills improved by two levels, she gained confidence in reading and writing, and she worked on improving her test taking skills. Then, in July, she took the ACT, achieved the Reading score needed, and received the diploma from her original school that she attended in 2015!

Kayla celebrating with a hug from the team at Duval County Public Schools Graduation Rate Initiatives Team (GRIT) after receiving her diploma nine years after coming so close.

What a journey and accomplishment! Kayla is not stopping there. Now, onward to additional education as Kayla wants to pursue Early Childhood Education at FSCJ. Her future students will be so lucky to have her as their kind and caring teacher. The Literacy Alliance team always looks out for the best option for adult learners.