For some, that often means taking a leap of faith and carrying on when you’re just short of the finish line. It's a metaphor that aligns perfectly with education. 

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, between 8.5% and 10.1% of U.S. adults aged 25 and older do not have a high school diploma. Family challenges, academic struggles, and various disparities are often the culprit. 

But, while it may not be easy, finishing the race is always possible with Clay County's Adult and Community Education program. And it’s never too late. 

"We're a great option for them. Whether it's in person or it's online, you're getting the same standards. And then, when you're done, you have the same opportunities,” said Supervisor of Adult and Community Education Kristin Rousseau. 

Every day that Rousseau and Coordinator of Workforce Development Brad Bishop go to work, it's a day to make a change. To make sure that proper educational opportunities are accessible to everyone. 

Clay ACE is one of the school district's many robust programs suited for individuals looking to simultaneously earn high school credentials and industry recognized certifications. It's a place where people aged 16 and up have the ability to brush up on their general skills, learn the English language, become entrepreneurs, master Microsoft Office techniques and reach their fullest potential.  

"At the end of the day, we can help provide a certification that's, in many cases, life changing," Bishop said.

Clay ACE is a popular option for those who face barriers when trying to advance their workforce careers. Locally, roughly 7.5% of local adults do not have a high school diploma, and 10.8% speak a language other than English at home. 

Rousseau said financial burdens, unfinished schooling and life can get in the way of traditional educational pathways. That's where Clay ACE steps in. 

Every year, more than 400 students dive into workforce training, GED preparation and Adult ESOL. Tuition for the semester-long programs cap at $30, Bishop said. That means students can not only earn their high school diploma, but also become licensed nursing assistants, 911 operators and phlebotomy technicians— all at a significantly cheaper price than traditional college courses.  They are part of Clay ACE's integration and education training program.

Real world partnerships with CareerSource Northeast Florida, LabCorp and Penney Retirement Community give students direct coaching and hands on experience with industry professionals. With 47.5% of open jobs in the region requiring professional certifications, Bishop said Clay ACE continues to make sure students are developing the correct skills to be workforce ready. 

With day and evening classes, the program has schedules available to fit every student’s needs, especially those with families. And because many of the certificates transfer to state colleges, students are able to use their knowledge beyond the four walls of the classroom. 

 "They're getting those employability skills in a blended format. So, you get that... classroom instruction, but you're also using the computer for some of your training as a major resource. You're getting computer skills, you're getting language skills, you're getting soft skills to apply for a job, teamwork. All of the things that you need to be successful," Rousseau said.

Costs for application fees and exams, Bishop added, are often footed by the school through grant funds. Though limited, Clay ACE is always working with local partners for fundraising and voucher opportunities. 

"We really absorb a lot of those costs for the student,” Bishop said. 

Each December, graduates walk across the stage at Orange Park High with a new sense of achievement. Rousseau recalled a once shy and reserved student who confidently busted out of his shell while in the program. He's now continuing his education beyond Clay ACE. 

"It's really a very joyful experience to see that happen because a lot of the students, when they come to us, they're just anxious and they're nervous because they'd failed at school," Bishop said. "And now they're trying it again for the second time," she said. "Then, when they cross that finish line, it's really a cool thing to see." 

At Clay ACE, family, education and community take center stage. 

Students are presented with a launch pad to jumpstart their future careers. And no matter what, success is possible. 

Enrollment is now open for the career-boosting programs. ESOL registration is available in-person at the Clay ACE building at 2306 Kingsley Ave. Registration for GED prep and all other workforce training courses can be found online at oneclay.net/o/ace/page/programs.