Academy of Hope CNA Program

Students attend either the Ward 5 (Northeast) or Ward 8 (Southeast) campuses, depending on their cohort. Both sites are equipped to host the hybrid program and support students with needed resources. Since placement in a specific campus is enrollment-dependent, applicants should be flexible about where they attend.

Class sessions are held four days per week, and cohorts are available in both the fall and winter/spring terms only. While this slower-paced schedule may not be ideal for those seeking rapid certification, it may benefit learners who prefer more guided instruction and time to master CNA skills.

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One of the most significant benefits of the program is that it is free for eligible DC residents. This includes tuition, required training materials, and a laptop loan for class use. Additionally, students receive scrubs, CPR/BLS certification, and even a transportation stipend, removing many of the typical financial barriers to healthcare training.

Academy of Hope also provides strong wraparound support services. Students benefit from resume help, job search coaching, career development workshops, and one-on-one academic tutoring. The support structure is ideal for those who may have been out of school for a while or need assistance managing school alongside work or family life.

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Applicants must go through a selective admissions process that includes academic assessments and documentation. Entry into the program isn’t automatic, even though it’s tuition-free.

Applicants must:

• Be 18 years or older and a DC resident
• Provide proof of DC residency
• Hold a high school diploma, or be close to completion (GED or NEDP progress accepted)
• Score 225+ on CASAS Reading and 210+ on CASAS Math
• Score 75%+ on the Northstar Digital Literacy Test
• Complete an advising session with workforce staff
• Pass a background check and drug screening
• Show proof of required immunizations (including COVID-19 and TB)
• Submit two professional references
• Complete a psychosocial assessment
• Undergo an interview with the workforce team

Applicants also need to demonstrate readiness by receiving strong recommendations from Academy of Hope teachers and staff, including rubrics that rate student engagement and readiness.

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Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Nursing Assistant Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam. This exam is required to become a licensed CNA in Washington, DC.

Academy of Hope works with employment partners to help graduates secure jobs after licensure. Graduates may find roles in nursing homes, long-term care facilities, assisted living, or hospitals. Additionally, the school helps students explore options to further their healthcare careers, whether they’re interested in becoming an LPN, RN, or pursuing another allied health career.

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Academy of Hope is not a traditional vocational school. It’s a public adult charter school that’s been serving DC for over 35 years. Its mission is to break down educational barriers for adults, particularly Black and brown learners. The CNA program is just one of several career pathways, and students at AoH often receive support well beyond the classroom.

Since its founding, AoH has helped thousands of adults earn high school credentials, improve literacy skills, or gain workforce credentials. About 60% of graduates continue on to college or post-secondary training, making it a proven launching pad for professional advancement.

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One standout feature is the school’s holistic approach. Beyond basic academic instruction, AoH’s Student Support Team provides case management, food distribution, and career coaching. Students can take part in:

• Career development workshops
• College counseling
• Job placement assistance
• Tutoring and remediation
• Vocational evaluations

These are especially helpful for adults juggling multiple responsibilities or those who’ve experienced barriers to education in the past.

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The hybrid model is ideal for adults who need a balance between in-person and remote learning. Evening classes provide working adults a chance to reskill without quitting their day jobs, while daytime classes cater to those with more flexible availability.

AoH is one of the few programs in the DC area that includes hybrid instruction, making it a practical choice for students who want modern learning options paired with real-world training.

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While the program is free and packed with perks, there are a few limitations students should think about:

• Seats are limited, so not everyone who applies will be accepted.
• The length of the program (5-6 months) may be too long for students seeking rapid job placement.
• Admission criteria can be rigorous for those who have not recently been in an academic setting.
• Availability at your preferred campus or schedule isn’t guaranteed.

Still, for students who meet the criteria and have the time, this program provides much more depth and structure than many faster, privately-run CNA bootcamps.

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