Behind Every Graduate Is an Educator Who Believed in Them
As a high school teacher, counselor, social worker, or student support professional, you are often the first to recognize when a student needs help finding a path to graduation.
Maria was one of those students.
When Maria was referred to Directions to Diploma during her freshman year, she and her family had recently moved to Omaha. She was struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, frequent absences, and the academic setbacks that often followed. Staying connected to school felt overwhelming.
Fortunately, her school counselor, Megan Kuhn, recognized that Maria needed additional support and connected her with Directions to Diploma.
Maria began working with Academic Navigator Jesi DeWitt, who helped her focus on her progress, build confidence, and stay connected to her goals. Over time, Maria found a learning environment that better met her needs through Omaha Virtual School and discovered a passion for marine biology through the OPS Zoo Academy.
Her attendance improved. Her confidence grew. Her future became clearer.
In May 2026, Maria graduated on time and is now preparing to attend a four-year college to pursue a degree in marine biology.
Maria's story is a powerful reminder that a student's current circumstances do not define their future. Sometimes, the right support, combined with an educator who believes in them, can make all the difference.
Helping Students Find a Path That Works
We know there is no single path to earning a diploma. Our goal is to help every student find the one that works for them.
Through one-on-one support, our Academic Navigators help students:
Re-engage with school
Understand credits and graduation requirements
Access tutoring and academic support
Explore educational pathways that fit their needs
Build confidence, accountability, and motivation
Create a realistic plan for graduation
Help a Student Take the Next Step
Consider connecting a student with Directions to Diploma if they:
Are behind on credits
Struggle with attendance
Have disengaged from school
Recently withdrew or are considering dropping out
Need help navigating educational options
Would benefit from additional encouragement, accountability, and support
A referral can provide the support, guidance, and encouragement that helps a student move toward a more successful future.
If your student is not ready to apply yet, complete our interest form. We will connect with them directly, learn more about their goals, and explain how our program works.
Together, we can help more students discover what Maria learned: graduation is possible, and their future is full of opportunity.