Goodwill To Open Adult High School In Saint Louis

ST. LOUIS, MO — Goodwill, a national chain of retail thrift stores that provides job-training programs for ex-offenders, people with disabilities, and others who may have trouble finding a job, will open four adult high schools in Missouri over the next 21 months, including one in St. Louis, according to a press release. Called Goodwill Excel Center, the schools will provide high school degree programs and work-related certifications to adults over the age of 21.

According to U.S. Census data, about half a million adult Missourians do not have a high school diploma, limiting their opportunities for income and career choice.

The schools will follow a traditional high school curriculum and students will receive a high school diploma just as if they had graduated as teenagers. Goodwill was awarded the adult education contract in a bill signed by Gov. Eric Greitens last year after a bidding process. The state will provide $8 million to fund the program. The rest will be funded by Goodwill donations.

"We are thrilled to earn the contract from the state of Missouri," said Goodwill CEO David Kutchback. "The Goodwill Excel Centers will further our vision of a community where each individual has the opportunity to learn, work and achieve their greatest potential. We know the need is there, and we are ready to serve."

Goodwill says its Excel Centers will accommodate student's work schedules with flexible class times and on-site child care. The educational services will be free of charge. Recruitment is set to begin immediately. Anyone interested in applying should call 314-982-8802.

The first Excel Center will open in St. Louis by October, followed by a second in Poplar Bluff, Mo., in January 2019. The third school will be located in Colombia, Mo., and the fourth in Springfield, Mo. Goodwill is currently searching for about 30 teachers and administrators to staff the first school.

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