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Earn a high school diploma


Career Online High School (COHS)

The Chicago Ridge Public Library, Reaching Across Illinois Library System (RAILS) and Career Online High School (COHS) are working together to combat the dropout crisis by giving adults a second chance at a high school diploma. COHS is an 18-credit, vocation-based high school completion program. Unlike the GED, this program enables libraries to offer adult learners accredited high school diplomas along with career certificates in one of 10 high-demand employment fields.

Since Chicago Ridge Public Library launched this program three years ago, 8 adults have graduated from COHS--giving participants a clear path to further their education or improve their career outlook. The Library has a limited number of free scholarships to COHS for Chicago Ridge residents ages 21 or older who are looking to advance their careers, prepare for workforce entry, or continue their education. 

Once enrolled, COHS pairs each student with an academic coach, who provides the student with an individual career path, offers ongoing guidance, evaluates performance, and connects the student with the resources needed to master the courses. Students will be given up to 18 months to complete the program. 

To learn more about the program go to: https://rails.careeronlinehs.org

If you have any questions, please contact Alicia Jackson, Adult Services Manager.

From left to right: Library Board President Richard Fitzgerald, COHS graduates 
Michael Lonie & Ilham Judeh,and Library Director Dana Wishnick