Dropout Prevention & High School Diploma Program
The Dropout Prevention & High School Diploma Program we offer is powered by Knowledge-First Empowerment Academy, a leading National Education Service Provider. We’re committed to the belief that every student deserves a genuine second chance. Our core mission is to support second chance offenders and high school dropouts—individuals who, for any number of personal reasons, had to step away from traditional schooling.
That’s why we’ve partnered with Knowledge-First: to ensure our participants have access to the highest-quality educational resources and the best possible pathway to a brighter future.
Unlike programs that offer only a GED or equivalency certificate, our approach provides a clear, flexible route to earning a fully accredited high school diploma. This program is designed specifically for young people and adults who left school due to hardships—whether those challenges stemmed from family obligations, financial pressures, health issues, or other life circumstances.
Based in Harvey, IL and serving Chicago and the greater Midwest, our program is tailored to real-world needs. We empower students to reclaim their education, rebuild their confidence, and unlock new opportunities—making academic success truly attainable for all.
Diploma
Career
A High School Diploma that Truly Counts
One of the most important parts of our program is that we offer an accredited high school diploma. This is a recognized credential that carries more weight than a GED and is accepted by employers, colleges, trade schools, and the military. Our curriculum is structured, accredited, and designed to provide a strong academic foundation without unnecessary barriers.
Students don’t have to restart their education from scratch. We evaluate transcripts and transfer credits whenever possible, helping each student complete their diploma efficiently and with dignity.
Who We Serve
Students Ages 15+ Facing Personal Hardship
Many of our students are bright, capable individuals who left school not because of ability, but because life made it difficult to stay. Personal hardship can look different for everyone, but commonly includes:
- Family responsibilities such as childcare or caregiving
- Financial instability that required students to work
- Unstable housing situations
- Legal issues or involvement with the justice system
- Emotional or mental health struggles
Our dropout prevention program was created to meet these students where they are, offering structure without rigidity, and academic opportunity without judgment.
Diploma
Career
Diploma
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Flexible Scheduling That Works for Real Life
- Open entry and exit: Students can enroll throughout the year instead of waiting for a specific semester.
- Evening and weekend classes: Our scheduling options make education accessible to those who need nontraditional hours.
- Self-paced learning: Students progress at a pace that works for their personal situation, supported by instructors and mentors who want them to succeed.
Academic Excellence with Real Support
Earning a high school diploma takes commitment, but no one has to do it alone. Our program includes academic support, mentorship, and wraparound services to help students stay on track. We provide:
- A structured academic curriculum aligned with state and national standards
- One-on-one and small group instruction
- Tutoring and academic mentoring
- Personal development workshops to build confidence and life skills
- Job readiness resources for students preparing for the workforce
We don’t just hand out diplomas: we help students build a foundation for the future.
Diploma
Real Support
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College and Career Readiness
For many students, earning a diploma is just the first step. Our program is designed not only to help students graduate but also to prepare them for the next chapter. Whether that means college, trade school, or entering the workforce, we make sure students have the tools they need to succeed.
Our college and career readiness support includes:
- Guidance for college applications and financial aid
- Resume-building and interview preparation
- Access to community partnerships and workforce training programs
- Career pathway planning based on students’ strengths and goals
We Inspire Inc. – Second Chance Reentry Program
How Our Dropout Prevention Program Works
The core of the program is structured around seven weekly modules, each focusing on a specific area of personal growth. Every week includes guided exercises, reflection prompts, and simple daily actions to keep progress clear and achievable.
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Career
Why Our Program Works
Our approach blends academic structure with compassion and flexibility. Instead of forcing students into a rigid system, we build a supportive structure around their real lives. This approach has helped countless individuals not only earn their diplomas but also find confidence, stability, and purpose again.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Accredited high school diploma, not a GED
- Flexible scheduling with open entry and exit
- Designed for students facing personal hardship
- Academic and personal support services
- Proven record of helping at-risk youth and adult learners succeed
frequently asked questions
What makes your program different from a GED program?
Who qualifies for the program?
Can I work while attending the program?
Do you accept transfer credits?
What happens after I earn my diploma?
A Second Chance That Leads to New Opportunities
At We Inspire Inc., we believe your past doesn’t define your future. And with this value in mind, our dropout prevention program gives students who’ve faced personal hardship the support and structure they need to earn a meaningful, accredited high school diploma. Plus, with flexible scheduling, compassionate mentorship, and real career preparation, we help students create new possibilities for themselves and their families.
So if you or someone you know is ready to finish their education and build a better future, we’re here to help. Simply contact us today to learn more about how to enroll in our high school diploma program and start your next chapter.
Knowledge-First Academy & Career institute
Where Exceptional is NOT, the Exception
1. Enrollment Form (Fillable)
This fillable enrollment form is designed to collect all essential student information in one organized document. It includes personal details, academic history, required documents, and eligibility verification. The digital format allows families to submit information easily and accurately, reducing errors and speeding up the enrollment process.
2. Flyer (Dropout Prevention)
3. Testimony (Homeless Student)
4. Brochure
5. Enrollment Form (Fillable)
7. Accreditation Document
8. Resolution (Texas Senator)
9. Why: Knowledge-First
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact:
James H. Allen, Executive Director
281-499-8315
Wisdom~Honor~Perseverance
PRESS RELEASE
Knowledge-First Empowerment Academy Partners with We Inspire, Inc., Harvey, Illinois.
Houston, Texas – 10/December 2022 – Mr. James H. Allen announced today that We Inspire, Inc.; a regional nonprofit educational provider has agreed to bring the Accredited High School Diploma/Dropout Prevention Project to the City of Harvey. As a satellite office and affiliate of the Knowledge-First Empowerment Academy, We Inspire Inc. has shown the dedication and desire required to provide educational services under the Knowledge-First banner. “From the family bread-winner to those seeking secondary education, a career or technical choices, having a high school diploma is the first step in one’s path of self-actualization and efficacy”, says Mr. Allen. Low wages, no health insurance, higher crime rate and low self-esteem are but a few of the debilitating characteristics of those who have dropped out of school. This relationship will provide access for students who have experienced “personal hardships” which has caused them to drop out of school. These students may have dropped out of school because of personal or family illness, (2) pregnancy of learner, (3) learner having served court-ordered judgment, (4) learner who had to find employment to take care of their family, or (5) other extenuating circumstances. Without a high school diploma, these students are most often destined to a life that leads to dysfunctional behaviors and they become a drain on social services and public assistance. With our accredited services, these students can return to school and obtain their high school diploma. With a diploma in hand, they can now enjoy the benefits of a better job or attend college or vocational school. With this program, these students become contributors to society while offering hope for themselves and future generations.
Since 2001 Knowledge-First, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization has been educating and empowering learners to maximize their potentiality while inspiring them to develop a synergistic lifestyle. “We want to thank We Inspire, Inc. for making this project available, as it will substantially decrease the number of high school dropouts in their community and stimulate hope to those individuals who have felt that the system has failed them”, says Mr. Allen.
To this end: Knowledge-First will additionally provide workforce development training that develops positive characteristics while leading to student success. If you or someone you know can benefit from this project, you are encouraged to give us a call at to call: 713-283-0249 or 281-499-8315 and ask for Mr. James H. Allen.
Any organization interested in partnering with this or similar programs are encouraged to give us a call. We are our brother’s keeper!