Safety Harbor Public Library Hosts Career Online High School Graduation

The 2018 graduating class of Safety Harbor Public Library’s Career Online High School program received diplomas in a ceremony held on Sunday, August 26. The graduation ceremony, the first held by the Library, celebrated the accomplishments of eight graduates with families, friends, and community members.

Career Online High School is a self-paced, accredited online high school diploma for adults 19 and over, offered free by the Florida Division of Library and Information Services to library cardholders within Pinellas County. In addition to a high school diploma, graduates receive a career certificate, including options such as child care and education, food and hospitality, retail and customer service, general career preparation, and more.

Graduates walked to pomp and circumstance and donned gowns donated by Enterprise High School in Clearwater. Speeches were made by Pamela Moore, retired Associate Superintendent of Teaching and Learning for Pinellas County Schools, Jennifer Pawlowsky, graduating speaker, and Safety Harbor Commissioner, Nancy Besore. Diplomas were awarded by Amy Johnson, State Division of Library and Information Services Director.

“This wonderful program is another example of how libraries today change lives in a big way,” said Lisa Kothe, Safety Harbor Library Director. “With their diplomas in hand, graduates have more job opportunities, can advance in their current careers or continue on to higher education, and be examples for their children. It’s a life changing accomplishment. We are so proud of them.”

The application process for Career Online High School includes an online self-assessment, prerequisite course, and in-person interview at the library. Once enrolled, students are assigned an academic coach, who provides ongoing guidance and evaluates performance. Students have up to 18 months to complete the program. Credits from previous high school experiences may transfer.

For more information on the Career Online High School program, visit http://cityofsafetyharbor.com/COHS or call 727-724-1525 x4112.