Turning Hope into Action for Adult Learners at Academy of Hope

AoH’s Decade of Impact event honored 10 years of becoming the eighth adult public charter school in the District of Columbia, changing lives through education. This is a testament to their unwavering commitment to adult learners.

On most days, the multi-purpose room at Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School (AoH) buzzes with activity—with eager adult learners, dedicated faculty, and school leaders. But on Nov. 21, the room became a stage for celebration, reflection, and recognition. AoH’s Decade of Impact event honored 10 years of becoming the eighth adult public charter school in the District of Columbia, changing lives through education. This is a testament to their unwavering commitment to adult learners.

Located in the historic Congress Heights neighborhood in Ward 8 (Southeast site), AoH has evolved from a community-based organization into a leading public charter school, overcoming challenges such as a devastating fire and the COVID-19 pandemic. AoH also has a Northeast site located in Ward 5. Since 2014, AoH has seen tremendous growth:

  • The school now serves more than 1,000 learners.
  • In 2014, AoH celebrated 6 graduates. In 2023, that number soared to 55.
  • GED pass rate is an impressive 85 percent.

The school’s impact is deeply personal for learners like Adhaan Mason and Tomicia Brown. 

“Enrolling here was not just a choice but a lifeline. I now have the confidence to dream bigger than I ever thought was possible,” said Mason who plans to pursue a career in entrepreneurship. 

“For years, I believed I wasn’t anything more than a high school dropout. I learned something powerful at AoH. They wanted me to succeed,” said Brown. “My high school diploma hangs proudly on my wall; it's next to an empty frame that will hold my bachelor's degree in social work.” She is currently enrolled at Catholic University.

AoH’s success is proof that investments and partnerships matter. Supporters like the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation and DC’s Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) have helped AoH expand IT and healthcare programs and increase their internal capacity, allowing them to hire more staff. Both organizations were honored with an AoH Circle of Hope award.

AoH CEO Lecester Johnson emphasized that investments in adult learners are critical, stating, “These investments make a difference for us because we know it’s not easier to support adult learners.”

Dr. Antoinette Mitchell, Interim State Superintendent of the OSSE noted, "This milestone marks a significant moment for not just AoH but the entire adult learner community in DC.” Mayor Muriel Bowser echoed this sentiment in a proclamation she issued for the occasion, calling AoH “an institution that makes all of us beam with DC pride.”

Dr. Michael Durant, AoH Chief Academic Officer, said the school goes beyond academics, AoH provides life coaching and career planning, setting learners up for lasting success. “Our learners have options when they leave here.” He also shared that 85 percent of graduates transition to meaningful employment 

AoH’s charter was continued by the DC PCSB on Sept. 26, 2024. Looking ahead, AoH hopes to expand its model to Baltimore, Md. and Richmond, Va. The audience was told their investment in AoH is an investment in justice and were encouraged to keep the momentum going for another decade of impact and beyond.