Education and TrainingCOMPASS Youth Program

Helping young people create a better future

Life sometimes gets in the way of your plans and dreams. If you dropped out of high school, Action Inc. is here to help you achieve your education and life goals. Our COMPASS Youth Program helps out-of-school young people ages 16 to 24 prepare for and pass the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET). Your dreams don’t have to be a thing of the past. We’re here to help you get back on track and create a plan for your future.

If you dropped out because you didn’t fit in at a traditional high school, or because family or personal issues got in your way, we’re here to help you move forward and break through whatever has been holding you back. Our COMPASS Youth Program tackles challenges and barriers that you may have experienced and supports you with one-on-one counseling, tutoring, college and job preparation, employment and career counseling, and life skills coaching. We also will connect you to opportunities for paid internships, job shadowing, and employment.

COMPASS is a safe and flexible program designed to help you pass the HiSET, determine your career interests, and set you on a path for success. We wrap services around you and your needs to help you get your life in a better place

COMPASS is a good place to be!

HiSET Preparation Program

(for 16 to 24 year olds)

■ FREE for eligible Cape Ann residents
■ Safe and supportive learning environment
■ Flexible class schedule
■ HiSET preparation book and exam fees will be paid for you
■ Learn in a small class setting with one-on-one tutoring
■ Career and college advising
■ Connect to opportunities for paid internships and employment
■ Field trips to local colleges and businesses
■ Transportation to North Shore Community College to take the HiSET exam

What Is HiSET?

If you dropped out of high school, it’s not too late to get your equivalency diploma. A high school diploma is an important key to a better future. The High School Equivalency Test or HiSET (formerly called the GED) measures your knowledge and skills in reading, writing, social studies, science, and math. Passing the HiSET is the equivalent of graduating from high school.

Obtaining a HiSET diploma allows you to:

■ Enroll in college
■ Apply for jobs or training that require a high school diploma
■ Access more career and educational opportunities

Frequently asked questions

How do you define "youth" for this program?

If you are between the ages of 16 and 24, you may be eligible for the COMPASS Program. Call us at 978-282-1000 or email compass@actioninc.org for more information and to sign up.

When are classes offered?

Academic instruction is offered from 9 am to 2 pm Monday through Friday. One-on-one tutoring is available upon request and based on need.

Do I have to pay anything to attend the HiSET preparation classes?

No. This program is free for eligible Cape Ann residents.

What areas of Massachusetts do you serve?

We serve residents of Gloucester, Essex, Ipswich, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and Rockport. (Our Fuel Assistance Program also serves Hamilton and Wenham.)

Contact us for more information

Education & Training

978-282-1000