As of 8-19-2026, the newest census data shows that approximately 578,894 working-age adults (18-64) in Ohio have not completed a high school diploma or high school equivalence diploma. Adults without a high school diploma are at a disadvantage when competing for Ohio’s in-demand jobs.
Aspire Transition to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce
The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce is committed to strengthening opportunities for adult learners. As part of this effort, the Aspire program will transition from the Ohio Department of Higher Education to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce effective July 1, 2026.
This transition supports a more coordinated approach to adult education and workforce development by aligning programs that serve Ohio adults without a high school diploma.
What This Means for Aspire Providers and Partners
There will be no changes to how Aspire programs operate. Students, providers, and partners can expect continuity in all aspects of the program including:
- Program services and delivery models
- Enrollment and student processes
- Funding structures and requirements
- Current leadership and staff, including T.J. Armstrong and the Aspire team, remain the same
This is an administrative transition only, and there will be no disruptions to services.
Looking Ahead
The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce remains committed to providing high-quality services and supporting Ohioans in achieving their education and workforce goals.
For questions or additional information, please reach out to your Aspire contact.
Administrator Information
Timeline
9/21/2026: 3:00pm - 4:00pm - Adult Workforce Diploma Program Provider update meeting. Click on the Teams meeting link to attend the meeting:
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/298354633140155?p=gTNOngLCNzeoDZoG3P
9/23/2026: 5:00pm - Cut-off to submit payments in LACES (submission does not guarantee approval)
9/28/2026: Payments are processed for AWDP
10/22/2026 OAACE Conference will take place at the OCLC Conference Center, 6600 Kilgour Place, Dublin,
Ohio 43017. Registration: 2026 OAACE Fall Conference – Ohio Association for Adult and Continuing Education
Recorded Sessions and Slidedecks
AWDP Provider Application meeting/webinar
AWDP Documents
LACES Updates
LACES - Data User Guide and Webinar
Diploma Pathway User Guide
LACES webinar August 21 2026 NEW
Adult Education Week 2026 Events - NEW
Adult Workforce Diploma Program Providers,
We would like to inform you that registration for this year's Adult Education Week is now open. This year, Adult Education Week will align with the national Adult and Family Literacy Week starting on September 14th. We will begin with a virtual kickoff on September 14th, followed by regional events the following days hosted by Pickaway Ross (September 15), Apollo (September 16), and Tri-C (September 17). Please invite your staff and other community members to attend one of our free regional events. The purpose of these events is to build relationships, provide professional development, and connect the Adult Education Community across Ohio. These events are not open to students this year. The deadline to register is September 8th. If you have any questions, please reach out to a member of the Adult Options team. We hope to see you then.
Registration Link:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=xPz4UNiUB0-E6zbtV8fIouBL4tfnZlhOmjBPZcYpdb9UOVNQS0tZMkVKTEVYU0REMVVVTEk3UjFXUCQlQCN0PWcu
Adult Workforce Diploma Program
Competency-Based Diploma Pilot Program
The Competency-Based Diploma Pilot Program helps adults earn a high school diploma. The program is free to adults who are 18-21 years old, living in Ohio, withdrawn from school, and do not have a diploma or High School Equivalence. The Pilot ran from Jan. 10, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
As of June 30, 2025, the Competency-Based Pilot Program ended. The report is now attached.
Adult 22+ High School Diploma Program
The 22+ Adult HSD Program helps adults earn a high school diploma. The program is free to adults who are over 22 years old, living in Ohio and do not have a diploma or High School Equivalence (HSE). As of July 1, 2026, this program is not available to new students.
The Adult Diploma Program provides job training and a new pathway for adults, ages 18 or older, an Ohio resident, and withdrawn from school to earn a high school diploma AND industry credentials aligned to one of Ohio’s in-demand jobs. As of July 1, 2026, this program is not available to new students.
High School Equivalency (HSE)
The Ohio High School Equivalence (HSE) provides learners 18 years of age and older, the opportunity to gain the academic skills and credentials needed for postsecondary education and workforce development. Test takers who are 16 & 17 years of age may also apply with approved documentation.
High School Continuation Program
The High School Continuation Program allows participating local school districts to issue high school diplomas to individuals 16 or older who have met certain requirements.
Additional Adult Learner Resources