Overview:
The High School Equivalency Program (HEP) helps migratory and seasonal farmworkers (or children of such workers) who are 16 years of age or older, and not currently enrolled in high school, obtain the equivalent of a high school diploma and, subsequently, gain employment or begin postsecondary education or training. The program serves more than 7,000 students annually throughout the United States. Competitive awards are granted with five years of funding by the Federal Government through the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Migrant Education (OME).
The legislation that authorizes HEP requires that each of the funded projects submit an Annual Performance Report (APR) demonstrating that substantial progress has been made towards meeting the approved objectives of the project. The Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) measures show percentages of HEP participants attaining high school equivalency certificates and post high school equivalency certificate placement at the national level. HEP GPRA measures are listed as follows:
GPRA 1: An increased percentage of HEP participants will receive their High School Equivalency Certificate. (National Target, 69%)
GPRA2: An increased percentage of HEP participants who have received their High School Equivalency Certificate will receive placement services to begin post-secondary education, vocational training program, upgraded employment, or enlist in the military. (National Target, 80%)
Mission:
Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC) HEP mission is to assist migrant seasonal agricultural workers (and their immediate family members) in a two county area (Sonoma and Napa) to obtain a high school equivalency certificate (HSE) and subsequently, gain improved employment, begin post-secondary studies or enlist in military services. SRJC HEP is committed to providing academic support such as preparation classes, personalized tutoring, support with testing fees, transportation assistance, books and supplies as well as transitional services such as career exploration, resume writing, scholarship assistance, informational workshops and exposure to cultural events.