What is The Excel Center®?

The Excel Center® at Goodwill is the first adult high school in Arkansas. It provides students ages 19 and older the opportunity to earn a high school diploma. The school offers flexible class schedules to meet the needs of working and busy adults and provides barrier removal in the form of transportation assistance, free on-site childcare, and a dedicated life coach. With an intentional focus on what comes next for students, students may also earn industry-recognized credentials while they earn their State of Arkansas accredited high school diploma.

 

Who can attend The Excel Center®?

Anyone ages 19 and older who has not earned their high school diploma can enroll in The Excel Center®. Students who have earned their G.E.D. or H.S.E. are also eligible to attend The Excel Center®.

 

How much will it cost?

The Excel Center®, operated and funded by Goodwill Industries of Arkansas, Inc. is free for students to attend.

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How long will it take to earn my diploma?

The time it takes to graduate varies by every student and greatly depends on the number of high school credits a student has upon enrollment, class placement and the number of classes students are able to complete per term. Our 8-week classes are accelerated and are often bundled to provide more credit earning opportunities for students. Each student will work with their life coach to create an Individualized Learning Plan highlighting their unique path to graduation.

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When are classes offered?

Currently, classes are offered Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Evening classes may be available upon request. Please contact the school directly to inquire about this option.

 

Can I bring my child(ren) with me?

The Excel Center® offers free onsite childcare for students’ children, ages six weeks to 12 years. If a student is in class, their child may be in the Drop-in Center.

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Do I have to live in Little Rock?

Anyone who is a resident of the state of Arkansas is eligible to attend The Excel Center®

 

Can I take classes online?

The Excel Center® is not an online program. The Excel Center® is staffed with highly qualified instructors who deliver engaging classroom instruction. Some courses may be offered via an online platform and will be determined by school leadership each term. Please contact our team at 501-372-5100 to learn more.

 

How does The Excel Center® support students with and Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and/or students who are learning English as a Second Language (ESL)?

Our team of qualified staff includes instructors, Life Coaches, and licensed Special Education Teachers who know how to help adult learners who may need additional support in addressing academic challenges. During the enrollment process and throughout a student’s time at The Excel Center®, our team works with each student to identify and address potential barriers to personal and academic success.