by Shawn Nowlin
It’s been a few months since Virginia opened The Excel Center, the first adult high school in the Commonwealth. An opportunity to give everyone a second chance to earn their high school diploma at Melrose Plaza in Roanoke, the program’s staff personnel and students proudly say that things have gotten off to a great start.
Rather than traditional GED programs that primarily emphasize test preparation, the center provides a more comprehensive high school experience, ranging from different school subjects to team activities.
For a variety of reasons, students drop out of high school every year. In the case of sisters Porsche Calloway and Rosa Calloway Hudson, it’s been nearly 25 years since they were teenagers. Both are perfect examples that it’s never too late to accomplish a goal.
Considering that Rebecca Smith is the head teacher for the Excel Center, it should come as no surprise that so many students are thriving academically. The inaugural class consists of approximately 60 students. Samantha Steffen, the school’s English teacher, praises their commitment and hard work.
Said Excel Center School Director Bruce Major prior to the first day of classes in August, “Of course GED and adult education programs are good. Having a high school diploma allows for more employment growth, which typically leads to a higher increase in one’s monthly income.”
Added Richmond Vincent, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of the Valleys, “The Excel Center encapsulates the true mission and values of Goodwill. Students will be empowered, inspire their families and neighbors, and break the cycles of generational poverty.”
In addition to transportation assistance, free childcare is also provided at the adult high school, courtesy of Taren McCoy’s Small Steps Learning Academy. Students can also earn certificates in such fields as healthcare and manufacturing.
Since its inception when Goodwill began lobbying the Virginia General Assembly to create the high school, the Excel Center has been beneficial to everyone involved.
For more information, including how to sign up for classes, visit https://excelcenterva.com/
