Twenty-nine determined adults proudly turned their tassels on Friday, Aug. 8, marking the successful completion of the San Bernardino County Library’s Career Online High School (COHS) program. This milestone was celebrated with an uplifting graduation ceremony attended by family, friends, library leaders and community supporters.
Held at the Fontana Lewis Library and Technology Center, the event recognized graduates, each of whom overcame personal challenges to earn their accredited high school diplomas.
“This program is about more than a diploma,” said Assistant County Librarian Kristin Stevens. “It’s about creating opportunity—whether that’s advancing in a career, pursuing higher education, or simply achieving a lifelong dream. Every graduate here has proven that it’s never too late to invest in yourself.”
The COHS program, offered through the San Bernardino County Library system in partnership with the California State Library, provides adults the flexibility to complete their education online, while also earning career training certificates in fields such as childcare, office management and hospitality. Students receive personalized support from academic coaches, and library staff help connect them to additional community resources.
Since launching in 2016, the program has graduated more than 220 students in San Bernardino County. Many graduates have gone on to enroll in college, earn professional licenses or secure better-paying jobs.
For one graduate, Veronica, the journey was as much about setting an example as it was about personal growth. “I wanted my kids and grandkids to see me finish what I started,” she said. “Now they know that giving up is not an option.”
Funding for the COHS program comes from the California State Library, ensuring that qualifying students can enroll at no cost.
Applications for the program are accepted year-round. Adults interested in earning their diploma through the COHS program can visit the library’s webpage or speak with staff at any San Bernardino County Library branch. For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
About Career Online High School
Career Online High School (COHS) is an educational service offered by Smart Horizons Career Online Education that offers adults the opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma and credentialed career certificate at the same time. In this program offered by the California State Library, libraries receive support to offer free COHS scholarships in their communities.
About the San Bernardino County Library
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, programs and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.
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