Our Core Values
An adult learning high school that awards industry recognized certifications and high school diplomas to adult learners in Colorado.
Adaptability. We adjust to changes in circumstances with a positive attitude.
Attendance. Students strive for perfect attendance and are actively engaged in class.
Emotional Intelligence. I am aware of how my behavior impacts those around me and I use this influence in a positive way.
Goal-striving. I make choices that align with my goals at least 90 percent of the time.
Grit. I always find a solution and refuse to give up.
Integrity. I follow through with what I say I will do.
Self-control and awareness. I strive to behave appropriately based on the circumstances.
Leadership. I identify opportunities to help others and make The Excel Center a great place to learn.
How Did we get Here?
There are more than 300,000 adults without a high school diploma in Colorado. After age 22, these individuals had no opportunity to attain an in-person high school diploma—which significantly limited their earning power and career options.
In 2023, through the considerable efforts of Goodwill of Colorado and legislators on both sides of the aisle, a bill was passed to create funds to help support the achievement of a high school diploma. In collaboration with the Colorado Department of Education, Goodwill of Colorado is launching The Excel Center.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Excel Center?
The Excel Center is Colorado’s first, tuition-free, in-person adult learning high school allowing older students to earn their high school diploma.
How long are the sessions and what are the school operating hours?
There are five terms in a year each being eight weeks long. (We work to keep our schedule like the Aurora Public Schools calendar as closely as possible)
- Classes at The Excel Center are held Monday through Thursday and are one hour and 30 minutes in duration.
- Your class schedule will depend on your availability. School is open on Friday’s from 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for teachers/staff to meet with students for tutoring; students can also use the computer lab and work toward their certifications on Friday’s.
How long does it take to graduate?
Our enrollment process allows a student who dropped out of school with as little as no high school credits to advance through our 8-week learning sessions and earn their diploma in roughly two years.
- Students who have earned some high school credits may be able to complete their diploma program in less time.
- As students graduate from The Excel Center, enrollment spaces will open each eight-week session. This allows current students to move through the program and create additional enrollment slots for new students to be placed in Excel Center classes on a space-available basis.
How long will it take for me to receive my diploma?
The time it takes to graduate varies by every student and greatly depends on the number of high school credits a student has upon enrollment, class placement, and the number of classes students are able to complete per term. Our classes are accelerated, and courses are often bundled.
What services does the school offer?
The “Adventure Center” is a Drop-in Daycare offering free childcare for children 2 ½ up to 12 years old. The Excel Center also offers free transportation services/bus passes for enrolled students who need help with getting to school. Lastly, each student is assigned a Student Support Services Specialist who helps to remove any barriers students may have to completing their education. The support staff are present throughout the day to help students with academic advice as well as assist with personal issues and to offer solutions to students so they can focus on schoolwork.
How much does it cost to attend the Excel Center?
All services provided at The Excel Center are free. That includes classes, learning materials, support services, and the on-site childcare center.
When is graduation?
While you may finish at any time throughout the year, The Excel Center holds two formal ceremonies to celebrate graduation – one in winter and one in the spring.
How do I enroll?
Enrollment is easy! You may enroll anytime through our online enrollment form. You may also call or stop by Monday – Friday during normal operating hours and enroll with an Excel Center staff member. Click here for location contact information.
Is the Excel Center an online school?
No. The Excel Center classes are taught in-person. However, some of the certifications and other courses with local college partners may be offered online.
Does the Excel Center offer English as a second language (ESL) class?
As a high school for adults, all students must be working toward gaining a high school diploma to attend. For English language learners, we develop an Individual Learning Plan, based on the Home Language Survey & other Assessments, designed to help reach proficiency in the English language.
Can I attend the Excel Center if I have a certificate of completion or GED?
Yes. If you have previously earned a Certificate of Completion or GED/HSE, you may enroll at The Excel Center to earn your high school diploma.
What type of career services do you offer?
A Key model element of The Excel Center is preparing students for what comes after graduation through access to dual credit/enrollment opportunities and industry-recognized certifications. The College and Career Readiness specialist will be the primary person to assist students in transitioning to their next step or goal.
How competitive is admission?
The Excel Center’s enrollment policy prohibits discrimination based on disability, race, creed, color, national origin, religion, ancestry or need for special education services. Admission to The Excel Center is open to Colorado residents who are 22 years of age and older.
Does the school offer free lunch? What about drop-in center meals for the children?
The Excel Center does not offer lunch or meals to students or drop-in center children. Drop-in center parents are responsible for providing adequate snacks, lunches, and drinks for their children. Students are given a one-hour lunch break. Occasionally, food trucks are present on campus for students to purchase meals.
How much does it cost to take certification or college credit courses?
College credit and certification courses are offered to The Excel Center students free of charge.
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