Five months ago, DeAundra Fiffie’s aunt told her about a virtual high school completion program available through St. John the Baptist Parish Library. Today, Fiffie has her high school diploma in hand and a smile on her face as she journeys toward a brighter future for herself and her children.

St. John the Baptist Parish Library offers enrollment into the Gale Presents: Excel Adult High School Program at no cost to eligible adults who wish to enter the workforce, further their career, or attend college. Unlike GED programs, Excel High School offers a fully accredited high school diploma recognized by academic institutions across the country.

The self-paced program can be completed in up to 24 months. Students who have previously passed any part of the GED, HiSET or TASC may be eligible for transfer credits.

Fiffie was previously enrolled in a pre-GED program but found herself unable to secure a stable career to provide for her six children. “I need a career, and I can’t get that without my diploma,” Fiffie said. “When I found out about the Excel program in May 2024, I did a Zoom call, passed my interview, and was able to get into the program.”

Fiffie became the first student to graduate through St. John the Baptist Parish Library in early November, but she’s not stopping there. With her Excel High School diploma, she can now apply for college classes to become a medical assistant or patient care tech. Securing a career in healthcare will be her next step toward an overarching goal of home ownership.

“DeAundra really pushed herself, and her hard work paid off. I am beyond thrilled to have her complete the program and pursue her career and personal goals,” said Excel High School lead coordinator Andree Ory Fisse. “This program is so valuable to anyone with a drive to succeed who prefers online learning. They can utilize this program as a launching pad for their career and college choices. The fact that the military and many colleges accept this program shows that it is worthwhile.”

Assistant coordinator Raquel Parks views the Excel Program as an opportunity to efficiently earn a high school diploma. She said the Excel databases provide not only courses needed to graduate, but also continuous support from academic coaches.

“What an exciting day it was to congratulate DeAundra Fiffie on her accomplishment of earning her Excel Adult High School diploma. I hope the best for DeAundra and encourage her to continue to thrive in all her future goals,” Parks said. “I encourage all eligible adults who are interested to register and excel into their future.”

There may soon be two Excel High School graduates in Fiffie’s family, as her teenage daughter is currently enrolled in the program. Fiffie’s advice to others considering Excel High School is the same advice she repeats to her children. “Don’t ever give up when life comes with different challenges,” Fiffie said. “Keep pushing. Achieve your goals.”

To be eligible for a scholarship, prospective students must reside in St. John the Baptist Parish, have or be willing to obtain a library card, and have successfully completed the eighth grade. Students who do not have access to a computer or tablet with Internet service can utilize technology at any St. John the Baptist Parish Library branch to complete coursework.

Interested individuals can begin the application process by visiting the website to get started. For more information, email excelhs@stjohn.lib.la.us or call 985-267-1703.