Never Too Late: Johnny Jones Achieves Lifelong Goal at 62

Read time: 7 minutes

It's a story of perseverance, dedication, and the power of the right support system. At 62 years old, Johnny Jones has just accomplished something he's always wanted: earning his high school diploma. 

The Journey Isn't Always Direct 

Mr. Jones is a recent graduate of the Smart Schools program, a journey that took him about nine months to complete.  “I accomplished something that I've always wanted to accomplish,” he shared. “So I really, really feel good about that.” 

His path to graduation wasn't direct. Years ago, Mr. Jones had been incredibly close to finishing high school, with only a credit and a half left. When he decided it was time to finally complete that goal, he explored his options. His former high school suggested he enroll at Smart Schools, and after a call and a meeting, he was convinced. 

Benefits of Schedule Flexibility 

“They basically sold me on one of the benefits of using Smart Schools — the flexibility,” he recalled. “It didn’t take me long to make a decision... This is something that would definitely work for me." 

That flexibility was key. As the owner of a janitorial service, Mr. Jones needed a program that could fit into his existing schedule. Smart Schools offered just that. He made a “total commitment,” doing most of his work online but coming into the HUB for exams or when he needed hands-on help. “With the support that I had, the flexibility that I had,” he said, “Smart School was perfect.”

Success Through Strong Support  

Initially, he wasn't sure if he could accomplish it. But the people at Smart Schools made all the difference. “Because of the help and support that I had, it was easy, actually,” he said. 

Mr. Jones credits a team of supportive mentors and staff for keeping him motivated. He mentions Mark, his mentor, and Doug, whom he followed from the Peoria HUB to the Phoenix HUB. He also gave heartfelt thanks to Doug,  Jesus, Tiffany, Genesis, and Sarai. 

“Everybody was just so supportive, and that really, the support is what really got me through,” he explained. “I just can't thank them enough for the time that they gave me and... just helping me achieve my goal... There's no way I would have been able to do it without them.” 

Now a proud graduate, Mr. Jones offers advice for anyone considering this step:  

“I would tell them to go down and talk to some of the people that are running it, the mentors,” he advised. “Just basically find out what all they offer. Because I think once you find out the flexibility... whether it's online or in person, it's just something that they allow you the flexibility to be able to do it on your time. And now it's up to you. They're going to allow you the support, and all you have to do is put your mind to it and do it.”

Johnny Jones's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to finish what you started and achieve your dreams. 

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How to Get Started  

Ready to earn your high school diploma? Find out how Smart Schools can help you accomplish your goal and learn more about our free tutoring, academic advising, and flexible learning options. You can achieve your dreams and build a brighter future with the proper support.

Unlocking Program Success with an Academic Advisor by Your Side

Read time: 5 minutes

Returning to finish high school is a brave decision—one that can change your future forever. At Smart Schools, we understand that the journey to earning your diploma can sometimes feel overwhelming. Maybe you’ve been out of school for a while, or maybe life has thrown obstacles in your way.  

That’s why we’ve built academic advising directly into our program. We don’t expect you to do this alone. From the moment you enroll, you’re matched with an Academic Advisor who is committed to walking alongside you every step of the way. 

Your Academic Advisor is more than just a mentor — they are your guide, encourager, and advocate. With someone in your corner, you can unlock success and reach your long-time goal of graduating high school! 

What Makes Academic Advising So Important? 

When students come back to finish high school, many carry the weight of past struggles or barriers. It can be easy to feel like you’re starting behind everyone else or that the road ahead is too difficult; academic advising changes that. 

We believe every student deserves someone who is dedicated to their success — someone who understands where they’ve been, listens to where they want to go, and helps them get there. That’s the role of our Academic Advisors. 

Academic advising at Smart Schools is not an optional service; it’s a built-in feature of our program. Every student is paired with an Academic Advisor who provides the consistency, connection, and encouragement needed to thrive. Smart Schools students never have to “go it alone,” their Academic Advisor is there for them.

How the Academic Advising Process Works 

When you enroll at Smart Schools, program managers immediately begin the process of matching you with an Academic Advisor. We take your preferences into account and make sure the match feels right for you. 

Once you’re connected, you’ll meet with your Academic Advisor virtually to start building a relationship. Together, you’ll create your Individualized Learning Plan (ILP), which outlines your unique path to graduation. This plan serves as your roadmap, outlining exactly what needs to be done and breaking it down into manageable steps. 

From there, your Academic Advisor continues to check in regularly by phone, text, or email. Regardless of the teachers or courses you’re working with, your Advisor remains the same. That consistency means they genuinely get to know you, your strengths, and your challenges. 

What Academic Advisors Actually Do 

Academic Advisors can assist you in a few different ways, depending on what you need most. They can be a guide, a friend, a confidant, or even a coach who cheers you on when the going gets tough. Their ultimate mission is to help you overcome barriers, build confidence, and get to graduation day. 

Here’s what you can expect from an Academic Advisor at Smart Schools: 

• Connection – You won’t feel like just a number. Your Advisor checks in regularly to make sure you’re on track and to remind you that someone is always rooting for you. 

• Consistency – Teachers and classes may change, but your Advisor doesn’t. They’ll always be there as your steady support system. 

• Guidance – Advisors monitor your academic progress, help you problem-solve challenges, and share resources you may not know exist. 

• Encouragement – Sometimes, we all need someone to remind us that we can do hard things. Your Advisor is your biggest cheerleader, celebrating every milestone with you. 

The Long-Term Impact of Academic Advising 

Graduating from high school is the goal, but the impact of having an Academic Advisor goes far beyond your diploma. Through this one-on-one support, students often discover new confidence, stronger communication skills, and leave empowered to accomplish even more. 

Advisors can also help you look ahead — to college, career opportunities, and life after graduation. They’ll talk with you about your goals, help you think through your options, and make sure you feel prepared for whatever comes next. 

Academic advising not only helps you finish high school but also sets you up for success in the future. 

Unlocking Your Success 

At Smart Schools, we measure our success by the success of our students. Every time a student walks across the graduation stage, we know their Academic Advisor played an important role in helping them get there.  

If you’ve been thinking about finishing high school but aren’t sure how you’ll make it work, know this: you won’t have to do it alone. With a Smart Schools Academic Advisor by your side, you’ll have someone who believes in you, supports you, and helps you unlock the future you’ve been dreaming of. 

It’s never too late to go back. It’s never too late to start again. With an Academic Advisor cheering you on, your story can still lead to graduation day — and beyond. 

How to Get Started  

Ready to earn your high school diploma? Getting started is simple. Contact Smart Schools today to learn more about our free tutoring, academic advising, and flexible learning options. You can achieve your dreams and build a brighter future with the proper support.  

From Doubt to Diploma: Overcoming the Fear of Returning to School as an Adult

Read time: 5 minutes

For many adults, the idea of going back to school later on in life can feel intimidating. If you never finished high school, doubts may creep in: What if I can’t keep up? What if it’s too late? What if I fail again? These fears are common—and completely understandable. But the truth is, it’s never too late to take control of your education and your future. 

At Smart Schools, we understand the unique concerns adult learners face. We’ve seen countless students come through our program with the same worries, only to discover that they are more capable and prepared than they ever imagined. If you’re hesitant about returning to school, let’s look at some of the most common fears—and how to overcome them. 

Fear #1: “I’ve been out of school too long.” 

It’s natural to worry that you won’t remember what you once learned, or that starting again after years away will feel impossible. The good news? You don’t have to start where you left off. At Smart Schools, your program is personalized to your pace and your needs. 

Plus, as an adult, you bring real-world skills—like problem-solving, time management, and responsibility—that often make you a stronger student than you were as a teenager. Many of our adult students are surprised to find they learn more efficiently now because they’re motivated by clear goals for their future. 

Fear #2: “I won’t have time to balance school with my life.” 

Between work, family, and daily responsibilities, it’s easy to feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day to go back to school. Traditional classrooms require you to follow a strict schedule, but Smart Schools is different. Our online program is designed to be flexible—you can complete your coursework when it works best for you. 

Whether that’s early mornings before work, during your lunch break, or late evenings after your kids go to bed, you’re in control of your learning schedule. This flexibility allows adults to balance their education with the rest of life’s demands without burning out. 

Fear #3: “What if I’m not smart enough?” 

This is one of the most common fears adult learners carry. Maybe school felt overwhelming before, or you struggled with certain subjects. But needing help doesn’t mean you’re not capable. 

At Smart Schools, you’re never on your own. You’ll have access to supportive teachers and staff who are committed to helping you succeed. With encouragement, personalized guidance, and resources designed for adult learners, you’ll discover that you are smart enough—you simply needed the right environment to learn. 

Fear #4: “What if others judge me for finishing late?”  

Many adults hesitate to return to school because they are worried about being judged for going back to school later in life. There’s no shame in pursuing your education later in life. In fact, it shows incredible courage and determination. Showing others you can overcome a challenge, like finishing school, makes the effort worthwhile. 

Every Smart Schools student shares one thing in common: the desire to create a better future. You’ll be surrounded—virtually—by others who understand your journey and are working toward the same goal. Instead of embarrassment, most students quickly feel a sense of pride and empowerment. 

Fear #5: “What if I fail again?” 

The fear of repeating past mistakes can affect us significantly, but it doesn’t have to hold us back. Being afraid to fail is a common reason why many people don’t try something for the first time or again and again. But here’s the thing —success doesn’t always happen right away, you must keep trying. You will never know how far you will go, if you don’t try.   

With Smart Schools, you’ll have the tools and support you need to reach the finish line. The program is flexible so you can progress at your own pace.  From flexible scheduling to one-on-one encouragement, our program is built to help students succeed where traditional systems may not have worked before. 

The Rewards of Returning 

Overcoming the fear of going back to school is worth it. Earning your high school diploma opens doors to better jobs, higher pay, and opportunities for further education. More importantly, it builds confidence and pride in yourself. You’ll know that you didn’t let fear or circumstances stop you—that you pushed through and achieved something life-changing. 

Take the First Step 

Fear is normal, but it doesn’t have to stop you. Thousands of adults have walked the same path and discovered that going back to school was one of the best decisions they ever made. 

At Smart Schools, we believe in second chances and fresh starts. If you’re over 22 and ready to take control of your future, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way. 

You don’t have to let fear decide your future. Enroll today with Smart Schools—and prove to yourself what you’re truly capable of. 

How to Get Started  

Ready to earn your high school diploma? Getting started is simple. Contact Smart Schools today to learn more about our free tutoring, academic advising, and flexible learning options. You can achieve your dreams and build a brighter future with the proper support.