By Pam DaGrossa, Literacy Program Coordinator, and Dalia Amador, COHS graduate
For the last eight years, the Colusa County Free Library’s Literacy Program has offered scholarships to Colusa County residents to earn diplomas through Career Online High School (COHS), an accredited, fully online curriculum. For years, the Friends of Colusa County Library purchased scholarships, which were matched 1:1 by the State Library. More recently, the State Library used the same source of funding to create a statewide pool of scholarships for California libraries to draw from. Sadly, enrollment for California state scholarships is currently paused due to cessation of State funding.
Between May 2018 and May 2026, 13 Colusa County adults enrolled in Career Online High School with the goal of earning their high school diplomas. Of those, 9 graduated, 1 is still enrolled, and 3 did not complete. The currently enrolled student will continue her studies and graduate by September 2027.
The pausing of the COHS scholarship program is a loss to Colusa County. Here is the story of one of the graduates:
My name is Dalia Amador, and I am 31 years old. One of the most life changing opportunities I found in our community came through the local library.
When I first visited the library, I learned about an adult education program that helped individuals work toward earning their high school diploma through Career Online High School. Education had always been important to me, and I knew I wanted to continue building a better future for myself. After learning more about the program and the resources available, I decided to enroll.
That decision changed my life.
Through the support, encouragement, and guidance I received, I was able to complete my high school diploma. I will always be grateful to the wonderful women at the library who welcomed me, believed in me, and helped me stay motivated throughout the process.
It is unfortunate to hear that this program is no longer available, because I know firsthand how much of an impact it had on people in our community. Transportation is a major barrier for many individuals in Colusa County. I work within the community and see every day how difficult it can be for people to travel long distances for education or resources. Having a program available locally made education accessible for people like me who may not otherwise have had the opportunity.
I believe education is often overlooked in our community, yet it has the power to completely transform lives. Programs like this give people hope, confidence, and a chance to create new opportunities for themselves and their families.
I am proud of what I accomplished, and I hope my story encourages others to continue pursuing their goals no matter their age or circumstances. Sometimes all a person needs is access, support, and someone who believes in them.