Diploma vs. GED

Diploma

Students who choose the diploma program receive a traditional diploma that is certified by the state of Colorado and Denver Public Schools. Students earn their diploma by participating in a competency-based curriculum. Students progress through a course when they demonstrate competency on pre-determined standards the required number of times. This may mean earning course credit before, at, or later than the end of a traditional semester. To graduate, students must show competency to earn credit for all required courses. Earning course credit in this program at EGHS ensures that students are competent at the skills needed to be successful in the future.

Students who participate in the diploma program are afforded the opportunity to concurrently enroll in the Emily Griffith Technical College or at a community college of their choosing.

GED

Many students choose the GED Plus Program as an alternative to a traditional high school diploma. The GED program offers a shorter class day and college and career support. GED students participate in intervention classes in order to build their skills in preparation to pass the four senior level GED tests; Reasoning Through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science and Social Studies. For more information regarding test logistics, please refer to GED.com.

In addition to intervention classes, students are required to take a Future Choices lesson plans. In these lessons students will work with their college and career counselors to complete assignments that will prepare them for their future endeavors. This includes, but is not limited to: creating a resume; participating in job shadows; touring local trade schools, community colleges, and 4-year colleges; and filling out job and college applications.

GED students also have the opportunity to participate in concurrent enrollment at the Emily Griffith Technical College and local community colleges while enrolled in the GED program.

GED candidates must be at least 17 years old and be able to present a valid government issued ID (foreign or domestic). Students should expect to be in school at least three hours a day, four days week, with some extra tutoring on Fridays. The duration of the program varies from student to student. Emily Griffith High School will cover the cost of the tests ($150.00) as long as program requirements are satisfied.

Application Process

The application process for the diploma program and GED program is identical (both require a birth certificate and immunization records) with the exception of two factors:

• GED students must posses a non-expired government issued ID (domestic or foreign); diploma students may present an unofficial ID.
• Diploma students must submit transcripts; GED students do not.

Why EGHS?

It’s Flexible.

Our competency based curriculum affords you the power to accelerate the completion of a diploma or GED program.

It’s Personal.

With small class sizes & a small student to counselor ratio, you are guaranteed a personalized education & support system.

It’s Authentic.

Experience a mature college atmosphere in the heart of downtown. Beginning your career path has never been easier with hundreds of free, on-site college level & technical courses available through the Emily Griffith Technical College.

Testimonials

Graduate High School and College in Two Years?

Carlos did. After a winding journey through other high schools, Carlos came to Emily Griffith High School. He found a path that suited him and earned his high school diploma. Taking advantage of Emily Griffith Technical College’s Concurrent Enrollment Program, Carlos also earned a certificate in Water Quality Management. Now, only two years after first arriving at Emily Griffith, a job at Denver Water awaits. Check out Carlos’ story in the video, and ask yourself: what could you earn with your opportunity?

Emily Griffith is a quality school with good teachers who care if you’re okay and if you understand the material. (Food’s not bad either.)  There’s a lot less drama than your typical high school.  All the work is self-paced, so you are done with your classes quickly if you do the work.  That’s why I chose EGHS.

-Gilbert G.

I like to come to Emily Griffith High School.  When I was at other high schools, I would not learn anything.  But now it’s like I’m understanding more and more about life and my class work.  I never liked math, but one of the teacher’s, Ms. Short, helped me, and I got it.  Now I’m okay at math.
-Donovan S.

To me, Emily Griffith has given me a great opportunity for a second chance to get my high school education.   The teachers, staff, and program have taught me more than I had imagined.  I now have more of a desire to learn and be interested in things that I don’t know much about.  It’s made me a better individual.  I am more than grateful for that chance.
-Josh K.

Emily Griffith is one of the best schools for kids who need a second chance.  I came to this school to get a high school diploma and a job.  My counselor and teachers have helped me get closer to my goal.  Everyday, I am completing work, and the classwork is easy and quick to complete if you work hard, and you can go at your own pace.  There are simple rules to follow, and if you follow them, you’ll get along great.

The students here are all in the same place.  We all come from different backgrounds, and we all get along.  There is hardly any drama.  The kids and teachers are all nice and willing to help.  If it weren’t for Emily Griffith High School and its staff, I wouldn’t be earning A’s and B’s.  So if any kids are looking into schools and having a hard time deciding where to go, come here.
-Aubrey F.

Emily Griffith High School gave me a second chance….a chance to better myself and continue with high school. It opened doors for me because I was able to finish the Dental Aide program while still taking my high school courses. The school also provides new opportunities to expand my knowledge for the future.
-Brenda O.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How old must I be to enroll at EGHS?
  You must be at least 17 years old to enroll. Classes are free until you turn 20 years old.
• What kind of diploma does EGHS offer?
  We offer a Denver Public Schools diploma issued by Emily Griffith High School.
• What do I have to bring when I apply?
  You will need to bring your birth certificate (or passport), immunization records, transcripts, and a photo ID.
• Does EGHS have a graduation ceremony?
  Yes. We have two graduation ceremonies per year—January and June.
• Can I begin classes immediately after my registration is complete?
  All new students must attend an orientation and take a few additional assessments before they begin classes. Please consult the 2016-2017 Registration and Orientation schedule for registration and orientation dates. Each orientation spans two to three days; attendance on each day is mandatory.
• Does EGHS accept students expelled from other schools?
  No.
• Does EGHS have parking for students?
  We do not have parking for students. You may pay to park in nearby lots, or in metered parking on the street. RTD lightrail and bus is easily accessible. EGHS will provide free RTD passes if students have less than two absences per month and are making good academic progress.
• Does EGHS offer daycare?
  No.

For more information, please reference the Student Policy Handbook.