Youth GED Program

The Youth GED Program is an alternative to a traditional school setting that provides students with the intensive and supportive services they need to succeed. The holistic approach treats each student as an individual and a whole person, focusing equally on academics, support, and preparation for the future, as well as by celebrating the successes of the students.

The program is open to Boston residents, male and female, between 16 and 21 years old, who have dropped out of school but are interested in pursuing their GED, as well as college and career goals. Program hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 2:15 PM. By providing free transportation, breakfast and lunch for all students, the program addresses some of the most common barriers to school success.

The GED program has been in operation since 1992. The program includes seven full-time staff and three college interns each school year, and receives funding from the Massachusetts Department of Education, City of Boston's Office of Jobs and Community Services, and Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance Young Parents Program. Approximately 80 students are served each year.

Focused on Academics
Students attend classes a minimum of four hours per day in Math, Science, Social Studies, Reading, and Writing to help them prepare for the GED tests. Students are placed in learning groups based on their academic skill and comfort level. The program provides individual attention in small classes of six to 12 students with experienced teachers. Time is set aside for both individual and small group work. Local college students and community volunteers provide one-on-one tutoring. The facility includes a 13-station computer lab with Internet access with self-directed GED software available to students.

• Weekly life skills classes
• Weekly parenting groups
• Health education and counseling
• Leadership opportunities

Focused on the Future
Students receive assistance in planning for the future, including:

• Weekly workplace skills classes
• Career exploration activities
• Job placement assistance
• College and financial aid counseling
• Resume-writing and interview practice
• Follow-up services for one year

Celebrating Success
Students participate in a festive graduation ceremony each June, honoring GED graduates as well as students who have made significant academic progress. For many, this is the first time they will experience friends, family, teachers, and counselors cheering for their success. Staff takes other opportunities to recognize students' hard work, including:

• Attendance incentives
• Student of the Month award
• Nhuan Nguyen Award for Perseverance, named for a GED student who lost her life in 2006

Partnerships
The GED program works closely with other Crittenton Women's Union programs including the CHANCES program, Healthy Families, Hastings House, and the Early Education Center at Madison Park High School.

In addition, collaborations with organizations help expand the scope and improve the quality of services available to students. Some community collaborations include:

• Boston Career Link - Access to employment services specifically for youth
• TERI College Access Center - Financial aid counseling and technical assistance
• MSPCC (Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) Outpatient Mental Health Services - Voluntary therapy services on-site during program hours
• Boston Pediatric and Family AIDS Project - HIV/AIDS prevention and risk reduction education
• Allston-Brighton YMCA - Monthly student recreation time