Long Beach Public Library announced Monday that it is offering qualified Long Beach residents the chance to earn an accredited high school diploma and a credentialed career certificate through Career Online High School, a program brought to public libraries by the California State Library and Gale, a facet of Cengage Learning.

“Earning a high school diploma is a life-changing achievement,” stated Mayor Robert Garcia. “As an educator, I have seen first-hand how knowledge empowers people to develop personally and become engaged citizens, which is vital for our community.”

For those who qualify and are looking to earn a high school diploma, scholarships funded by the Long Beach Public Library Foundation and the California State Library, Long Beach Public Library will be awarded to potential Career Online High School students.

To be considered for the online program, applicants must be 19 years or older, be a Long Beach resident and have a library account in good standing, according to the website.

“By offering Career Online High School, we’re empowering our residents to seek new opportunities and transform their lives, which has always been the role of the public library,” said Glenda Williams in a statement, Director of Library Services.

Students of Career Online High School are each paired with an Academic Coach who assists the learner with their career path, evaluates their performance and connects them to the necessary resources to excel. Students have 24/7 access to the online platform, while all classes are supported by board-certified instructors, according to the release. Students are often able to graduate in four to six months by transferring previously earned high school credits.

Career Online High School is part of the world’s first accredited and private online school district, geared toward re-engaging adults into the education system and expanding their career opportunities. To learn more about Career Online High School, residents can visit any Long Beach Public Library location or visit the webpage here.

For more information on this and other Long Beach Public Library services, visit your local library, call 562.570.7500 or click here.

Image courtesy of Long Beach Public Library.