Overview



Durham Literacy Center’s Youth Achievement Program (YAP) provides intensive, individualized high school equivalency instruction to out-of-school young adults ages 16-24 in a safe, peaceful setting with structure and support. We provide strong role models; academic, career, and social skills counseling; and opportunities to explore a range of post-secondary and career pathways. The program meets Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-7:00 p.m., at Durham Literacy's headquarters at 1905 Chapel Hill Road in Durham. There are no fees or tuition required to be part of the program.  

Each student takes a pre-test at registration to determine their current reading and math level and to learn each student’s personal goals. Students will then begin independent learning during learning lab based on their level. Trained community volunteers and our math instructor provide direct instruction and support daily. Students have access to computer-assisted instruction to improve specific skills and accelerate learning, as well as proficiency on the computer.

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In addition to academic studies, career guidance is provided to help students identify and achieve their post-secondary goals, including college, vocational training, and/or entering the workforce. All students take their official tests at Durham Technical Community College and earn the North Carolina High School Equivalency.

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Youth Achievement serves young adults aged 16-24 seeking instruction for their High School Equivalency diplomas. Students must be able to attend 90 minute sessions daily Monday-Thursday, 10 am, 12:30 pm, 3 pm, or 5 pm, to receive direct instruction in reading, language, writing, and math skills and/or high school level instruction in the five HiSET subjects: reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. All students work with staff and community partners on career and college planning, and graduate from the program when they have passed all five HiSET subjects and earned their North Carolina High School Equivalency diploma.