FORT WORTH, Texas — A new charter school is open in Fort Worth, serving 500 adults looking to better their lives.
On Sept. 3, New Heights opened its doors. The dual-enrollment public high school is the first of its kind in the state, serving exclusively adults ages 18 to 50, according to a press release from the school.
The class of 500 exceeded the school's enrollment expectations by 150. As of Wednesday, Sept. 26 over 1.400 adults have started the enrollment process. The school allows students to earn their high school diploma, career certification, and college credits at no cost, the release states.
Gov. Greg Abbott visited the school Wednesday to celebrate the school's success. He said there are six million Texans who never completed high school.
"New Heights is not just a school,” Abbott said. “It is a critical tool in our efforts to provide the education and training needed to develop a workforce for the bigger, better Texas we are building for the next generation.
The school partners with Tarrant County College to help students achieve certifications and begin taking college classes, the release states. The school is located at 5901 Fitzhugh Ave at the Tarrant County College Opportunity Center, the release states.
“Receiving a full high school diploma and a college-level certificate will lift living standards for graduates and boost economic development for the community. The opportunity to learn is the opportunity to earn.” Elva LeBlanc, Tarrant County College chancellor, said.
Those with a high school diploma will earn $450,000 over their lifetime compared with someone without a diploma, the release states. Add a career certification, and that individual will earn $700,000 more.
Student Aric Dunmore said the school allows him to take classes at night while maintaining his work schedule.
“I’m getting my education and am still able to be a father to my kids and a husband to my wife, so it’s perfect," Dunmore said.
There is one other adult charter school in Texas, but New Heights is the only school that allows students to also earn college credits on campus, the release states. The ultimate goal, according to New Heights High School CEO Traci Berry, is giving the students the opportunity to secure a higher-paying job.
"I’m thankful to the Fort Worth community for embracing New Heights as an important educational and workforce ecosystem piece," Berry said. "I also credit our dedicated students, adults eager to return to school to create a brighter future and expanded legacy for their families.”
