The High School Equivalency Program at Northern is an educational equity program designed to help migrant and seasonal farm workers and their immediate families, and persons working in agriculturally-related activities, to obtain a High School Equivalency Credential, get a better job, go to college or vocational school, or enlist in the military.

NNMC HEP is funded through a competitive grant process by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Migrant Education.

Who is eligible?
Any migrant or seasonally-employed
farmworker who:
1. Works or whose immediate family has worked
at least 75 days during the past two years in
agricultural activities related to:
* Production of crops, dairy products, poultry
or livestock
* Cultivation or harvesting of trees
* Fish farming
2. Is 16 years of age or older, is not currently
attending high school, and has not received a
high school diploma.

NORTHERN’S HEP program
provides the following services:
* Classroom instruction
* Tutoring
* Instructional materials and books
* HSE testing fees
* Career and academic advisement
* Transitional services for college,
employment and the military
* Social, cultural and educational activities
* Life, job, and career skills classes
* Referral services
* Financial assistance stipend

HSE graduates:
* Have greater self-confidence, are more likely
to be employed full-time, and are qualified for
greater responsibilities and promotions.
* Accomplish as much in college and technical
training as traditional high school graduates.
* Are able to provide a more stable family life.
* Influence the next generation to value education and take school seriously, especially as parents and grandparents.