About the Achievers Initiative

The Achievers Initiative is a five-month educational strategy that incentivizes and supports Philadelphia job seekers/residents with preparing for and taking the HiSet® exam to attain a high school equivalency credential.  The Achievers Initiative is designed to assist Philadelphia job seekers/residents with attaining a high school equivalency credential for the purposes of increasing access to jobs that pay a living wage, boosting self-esteem and self-worth, and developing a workforce that is desirable to local employers. 

The Achievers Initiative provides a structured process for select individuals (Learners) to complete the Essential Education HiSet® Academy, through independent study, and take the HiSet® exam through Education Testing Service (ETS).  The Achievers Initiative is a FREE educational process that helps motivated learners attain a high school equivalency credential by offering resources and supports including pre-paid course and exam fees, achievement coaches, and a $300 check (non-taxable), via direct deposit, for credential attainment.   

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: Learners in the Achievers Initiative are not employees, workers, interns, or hired in any capacity by the City of Philadelphia or any other employer; therefore, learners will not receive any compensation for their time (i.e. independent study, preparation time, travel time, exam testing, coaching sessions, etc.).  The Achievers Initiative is a voluntary educational opportunity for Philadelphia County residents only.  What makes this voluntary opportunity innovative and unique is that it provides learners who complete the process, pass the HiSet® exam, and submit documentation of the credential attainment with a $300 check, via direct deposit, for ‘achieving’ their educational goal.

Learner Role Overview

Philadelphia residents that are accepted into the Achievers Initiative are volunteering their time over the span of five months to prepare for and take the HiSet® exam to attain a high school equivalency credential.  Learners in the Achievers Initiative voluntarily commit to performing the following educational steps and tasks for their own self-interest and benefit:

• Enroll in and complete the Essential Education HiSet® Academy exam preparatory and study course
• Complete the Essential Education Workforce Readiness course to develop skills and increase job marketability
• Attend all scheduled individual and group coaching sessions via Zoom to receive helpful support and assistance
• Register for and take the HiSet® exam at a PA state-approved testing location (COVID-19 may impact in-person testing)
• Provide documentation of high school equivalency credential attainment from DiplomaSender to project leaders
• Provide personal information including but not limited to:
  • e-mail address, home address, contact number, bank routing and account number for check deposit

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for acceptance, candidates must:

• Be a current Philadelphia county resident
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have a computer or tablet device with internet connection
• Be able to participate in virtual coaching sessions via Zoom
• Have a strong interest in and commitment to attaining a high school equivalency credential
• Commit to at least four (4) hours per week for independent self-study, exam preparation, and coaching sessions
• Have a strong desire to attain living-wage employment ($15+ per hour)
• Have a personal checking or savings bank account or be willing to open a bank account
• Not have already attained a high school diploma or equivalency credential (i.e. GED)
• Not be currently enrolled in high school or other adult education program, curriculum, course or class

Note: Preference may be given to Philadelphia residents that are under/unemployed or have lost employment due to COVID-19 pandemic-related business closures.

Competencies, Skills and Abilities

Ideal candidates should possess the following:

• Positive attitude
• Ability to communicate in a clear and respectful manner
• Ability to follow instructions
• Willingness to learn, grow, and develop both personally and professionally
• Ability to manage one’s time effectively
• Willingness to accept feedback and utilize available resources and support systems
• Self-motivation, commitment, perseverance, and the ability to address and overcome barriers and challenges
• Basic computer and technology skills

Send questions via e-mail to: [email protected]