Community Block Party Connected Cincinnati Families with a New Path to High School Graduation – Cincinnati Acceleration Academies
CINCINNATI, Ohio – September 3, 2026 - In Cincinnati — as in other communities around the country — there are many students for whom the traditional high school experience simply isn't the right fit. They may have fallen behind on credits, or they struggle to balance work or family responsibilities, but that shouldn’t prevent them from earning their high school diploma. On Saturday, August 29, students who were looking for an alternative high school experience that could fit their particular needs may have found it at Cincinnati Acceleration Academies’ Block Party.
Hosted by Cincinnati Acceleration Academies, the Block Party provided free food, music, games, and giveaways to the guests. Guests also received new backpacks donated by the Urban League and Barber Quinton Thompson from Loud Styles provided fresh hair cuts.
Cincinnati Acceleration Academies is a Cognia-accredited, tuition-free community high school designed for students up to age 20 who have fallen behind on credits or left school before graduating. The Academy helps them reconnect and move forward toward earning their Ohio high school diploma.
Cincinnati Acceleration Academies operates on a year-round calendar to keep students focused on their goal. Classes are delivered through a hybrid learning model that blends in-person academic coaching at the Academy with an online curriculum that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Students take one class at a time with each course designed to be completed in 2-4 weeks. For those who once felt overwhelmed by the traditional school day that required juggling multiple subjects at once, taking one course at a time makes it more manageable. Students stay focused and make noticeable progress toward their graduation goals.
“We want the young people in Cincinnati to know one thing: it doesn't matter what life has thrown at you, you still have a clear path to graduation,” said Gabrielle Jackson, Cincinnati Acceleration Academies Director. “At Cincinnati Acceleration Academies, we get that standard school schedules don't work for everyone. That’s why we meet you exactly where you're at. We’re here to help you clear away the roadblocks, get your confidence back and earn that diploma. This isn't just about finishing school, it's about building a better life for you, your family and everyone around you.”
If you’d like to learn more about the Academy, request a tour or to speak with one of the staff, contact information is available here.
ABOUT ACCELERATION ACADEMIES: As a leading school district partner in student-centered alternative education, Acceleration Academies provides students a second chance at a high school diploma by offering a hybrid learning model blending in-person academic coaching with engaging online coursework, flexible scheduling, and personalized support from teachers and mentors. Find more information at accelerationacademies.org.
Media Contact
Alyssa Reynolds, for Acceleration Academies
Pando Public Relations
alyssa@pandopublicrelations.com
916.430.0934
Cincinnati Acceleration Academies student Darion Bignham (middle) with Kirsten Johnson and team from Central State University with Cincinnati Acceleration Academies Graduation Candidate Advocate La'Tiffany Sanders (right)
L to R: David Grubb; Sarah Burke, Acceleration Academies Director of Charter Implementation; sisters of newly enrolled Cincinnati Acceleration Academies student Erionna Scott; and employees of Fat Katz
Brian Dell from Cincinnati State University
Liz Stirn from NECCO Community Behavioral Health and her daughter Piper
Renee from the Avondale Branch of the Cincinnati Public Library