Life credits may be awarded for those students who have mastered skills necessary to success in the world beyond the classroom walls.  Learning happens in many different ways, over varying lengths of time, and with a vast range of anticipated outcomes.  The GAP at GHS acknowledges that learning is a lifelong process. Active involvement in learning and reflection on the journey are essential elements to growth and new direction.

Life credit awards will be determined by a Review Panel appointed by the director of the GAP at GHS. Presentation recommendations and ideas follow. These are suggestions only; students are encouraged to be creative in their presentation to the Review Panel. 

Write About It: Students may present a brief paper about their experience, their journey, their trials. The paper should be 3-7 pages.  Attachments, photos, samples are encouraged.

Show Off: Demonstrate to and teach the Review Panel what you've mastered.  Bring in work samples, tools, materials.  Give the Review Panel an overview and share the skill for them to try a hand.

ReCreate It: Models have been used in museums and sales rooms to show everything from the construction of a mattress to the sprawl of downtown Boston. Create your model, and use it as you explain your learning path to the Review Panel.

Techno-MultiMedia: Use any blend of PowerPoint, cd, video or other media to share your experience with the Review Panel.

You should plan for about 15 minutes of presentation time, more or less.  Our goal is for you to 'show what you know.' After your presentation, the panel will ask questions they have about your learning process, your topic, or your opinions on related issues. The Review Panel is interested in you, and what you'll be teaching them about your learning experience.  They will ask questions which sincerely come to mind. They are not looking to trick you or cause you to stumble. Your presentation is an equal part of your learning experience. Enjoy the chance to share what you know with people who want to hear about it.

The goal of the Goffstown Adult Education Diploma Program (GAP) is to provide a second opportunity for adults and out of school youth to earn a certified high school diploma. The program of studies for GAP offers a balanced, standards-based curriculum sensitive to the characteristics of the adult learner. The GAP Diploma will recognize the goals accomplished and learning inherent in daily adult life. We work with our students to assist in transferring previously earned high school credits.

 The Goffstown Adult Education Program Diploma will be awarded when 20 program credits are earned. 

As Elective credits, the adult learner may be granted credit for the following (See Life Credit Awards Process):

• Continuous employment in one field for 3-5 years (2 credits maximum): Employer must submit, on company letterhead, verification of hours worked, a basic job description, and a short evaluation of your work performance.
• Successful participation in apprentice programs (2 credits maximum): Student must submit certificate of completion or a letter from the person mentoring the apprenticeship.  Credit will be awarded on a case by case basis.
• Successful completion of course work in Trade school, business school or college: Student must submit official transcript from school or institutions. 
• Supervised successful participation in volunteer and community service (2 credits maximum)
• Students must perform 45 hours of supervised volunteer service per credit at an approved site.  Supervisor shall submit confirmation of the service (on agency letterhead); student must submit a one-page paper about the experience. 
• Successful completion of program of study through accredited, approved correspondence school (2 credits maximum): Student must submit official transcript from school or institutions. Credit will be awarded on a case by case basis.

Special internships may be arranged upon approval by the program director and mentor.

The Adult Diploma is a true diploma. It is recognized by the State of New Hampshire and awarded by the Goffstown School Board. The environment is less traditional than the day diploma program, however the academic expectations are the same. (See Adult Diploma Requirements.) There is no upper age limit for the adult diploma; students between the ages of 17-107 can earn this diploma with pride. 

To enter the diploma program, students request all previous high school records be sent to the Director of The GAP at GHS (27 Wallace Road, Goffstown, NH 03045). (See Transcript Request Form). Upon receipt of school records, the director and student will meet to review the credits previously earned, and the credits still required to earn the Adult Diploma. During this interview, the student and director will create an individualized plan for completion of credits with a timeline of expected progress.

Diploma classes have very strict attendance requirements. In order to successfully complete a class, students must attend all classes and understand the commitment to out of school assignments (homework or projects). Classes generally meet on either Tuesday or Thursday afternoon/evening, from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm or 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. The Fall semester begins in October and ends in December. The Spring semester begins in February and ends in May. Summer classes meet on a varied schedule during June/July.

All students who enter the diploma program are expected to conduct themselves as adults. The Student's Acknowledgement of Responsibilities is a contract signed by both incoming students and the director prior to admission in The GAP at GHS. The adult diploma program is a supportive environment for students who sincerely want to earn their high school diploma. There is no tolerance of behavioral disruptions or disregard of other people - faculty, student or GHS guest.

Diploma classes are priced individually: tuition plus the cost of books or lab fees.  Students may pay in installments throughout the semester as long as they remain in good standing. Credit is withheld until outstanding financial commitments to the GAP have been met.

Although diplomas can be earned and awarded throughout the calendar year, there is a Year End Celebration in early June or late May to honor all Adult Diploma recipients, successful HiSET graduates and other students of distinction throughout the previous academic year at the GAP. Diploma and HiSET graduates are encouraged to invite family and friends to this graduation celebration.

The HiSET test when passed demonstrates that a test taker has attained the academic knowledge and proficiency equivalent to those of a high school graduate. Information from the exam helps identify areas where a test takers are career and college ready, as well as areas where they may need additional preparation.

Test Takers Are Tested in Five Core Areas:

• Language Arts Reading
• Language Arts Writing
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies

Test content is aligned with current practice in all states and jurisdictions.  Test takers can use existing prep courses and materials to prepare for the HiSET exam.

The Goffstown Adult Education Program offers ongoing HiSET tutoring, available as necessary.