Scholarships for Career Online High School program available through Walton County Public Library System
September 25, 2023 – Walton County Public Library System is pleased to announce grant funding for Career Online High School, a program for adults, 19 and older, who want to earn a career certificate and a high school diploma. The Friends of the Freeport Public Library received a grant from the St. Joe Foundation to fund these scholarships.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to partner with St. Joe and the Friends of the Freeport Public Library to promote education and career development in Walton County,” said Library Director Caitie Cerise. “We are looking forward to increasing the high school graduation rate in our county.”
Career Online High School is a private high school diploma and career certification program administered by Smart Horizons Career Online Education. Walton County began the program in October 2021 and have awarded four scholarships to date.
The program is accredited by Cognia, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, and Northwest Athletic Conference, and should be accepted by many colleges and universities like Northwest Florida State College and the University of Florida. However, admissions requirements are always up to an individual college.
A high school diploma from an accredited school may also provide a professional benefit for those already in the workforce without one.
Applicants must have a Walton County Public Library System Card in good standing, which can be obtained at any of the library branch locations or online at www.WaltonLibraries.com. Those who have already earned a GED equivalency or a high school diploma do not qualify.
There is an online assessment and interviews at the library as part of the admissions process. Those accepted into the program can earn one of eight career certifications including: General Career Preparation; Office Management; Child Care and Education* (CDA); Home Care Professional; Security Professional; Food and Hospitality* (CPFM); Commercial Driving* (CDL); Hospitality and Leisure; Retail Customer Service. (*Prepares students to obtain the industry credential.)
“The Friends are committed to serving our community and enriching the lives and futures of our citizens. We are excited to award ten scholarships to Career Online High School with assistance from the St. Joe Community Foundation,” stated Lori Logue, FFPL President. “These grants will further the educations of deserving, hard-working local residents.”
For more information and to apply, go to https://fl.careeronlinehs.org/ or email the Library Director at CerCaitlin@co.walton.fl.us.