Arlington Public Schools’ Open Doors program just started this school year but it’s already helping students achieve their dream of a high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED). By partnering with Workforce Snohomish, the program also offers career preparation which connects students with internships and jobs. The Open Doors Youth Reengagement Program is a statewide program that provides education and services to older youth, ages 16-21, who have dropped out of school or are not expected to graduate from high school by the age of 21. Arlington’s program is housed at Weston High School.
“Open Doors can be a good fit for students who have dropped out of school or who are considering dropping out due to life changes, work or other circumstances,” said Renee McArt, Open Doors Case Manager/Instructor. “The program provides later hours than a typical school to accommodate students who may work during the day.”
Sixteen-year-old Nazarelli Macias started with Open Doors in September. She has a young child and Open Doors allows her a flexible schedule to complete a lot of her courses online at home. She said the program provides a lot of help including online tutoring. She visits Weston twice a month to sit down with McArt and review her progress.
“My goal is to receive my high school diploma,” said Macias. “Having a diploma allows me to have more career options.”
Open Doors currently has 15 students enrolled in the program and is expanding. If you know of someone who would benefit from the Open Doors program, they can call McArt at 360-618-6336.