Academy of Hope

Academy of Hope (AOH) was founded in 1985 in hopes of empowering and educating the individuals most marginalized in Washington, DC. AOH provides high-quality adult education services for adult learners in the District, including GED preparation, adult basic education, computer training, and college readiness programs. With sites in Wards 5, 6, and 8, Academy of Hope’s 26 years of experience has benefited many people throughout the city.

Marie-Christine Diop Homan is an AOH student who received her GED. She grew up in a small Senegalese village with her parents and eight siblings. Homan, a multilingual individual, adopted English as her fifth language. The schooling she received in Senegal was mostly in French, once Marie-Christine came to the United States she had to transition to English. Having completed ‘lycee’ in Senegal, which covers curriculum a year beyond American high school, Marie-Christine wanted to further her education. In order to take the next step, she realized she needed to improve her English speaking skills. As a result, Marie-Christine took English classes, and received help from her husband. Once she was confident enough in her ability to speak English, Marie-Christine enrolled in a pre-GED course at Montgomery College, it was there her teacher suggested she study for her GED at AOH. In the summer of 2010, Marie-Christine enrolled in AOH’s GED program and passed her exam in May 2011. “I learned a lot,” said Marie-Christine, “this is a positive change. Now I have the chance to go to college and get a good job.”

Although Academy of Hope positively impacts many District residents, there are many difficulties the AOH staff and students face. “Our students face the central challenges of being poor: no healthcare, reliable transportation, or changes in work schedules. They have to work when scheduled, or else they would lose their jobs,” says Patricia DeFerrari, director of research and program development at AOH.

The AOH staff does not let the challenges their students face affect the work they do. There has been increased enrollment in AOH programs, specifically the Ward 8 site. In addition, AOH has also partnered with Strive DC to create a fast-track GED program for young adults ages 16-25, named “Strive for Success.” This 7-week program includes individualized and group sessions, as well as individual case management and a careers class.

Academy of Hope works diligently to empower, educate, and ultimately Make Work Possible for District residents. Defeat Poverty DC is appreciative of the support of the Academy of Hope. We look forward to working together to Make Work Possible, Make Work Pay, and Make Basic Needs Accessible for all District residents.

“Our students are inspiring,” says DeFerrari, “there’s a feeling of a small community here.”

Executive Director Lecester Johnson