21st Century Charter School partnered with Ivy Tech Community College to offer a program called Middle College. The school's website describes Middle College as "a collaboration between a high school and a college or university to allow high school students who qualify to enroll in and take college courses for credit."
The program allows qualifying students, like Osborne, to pursue their high school diploma and an associate's degree at the same time. The program is being praised across the country because it allows students to experience college life at no cost to their parents.
In an interview with the Chicago Tribune last year, Teasley praised Raven achievements and offered her as an inspirational role model for today's young people. Teasley said he hoped that other students might follow her example.
Osborne initially wanted to become a social worker and focused her studies on early childhood education. For now, though, it seems that Raven has found a different way to give back to her community and those who supported her.
After Raven graduates from high school in a few weeks, hopefully, she will take some time off before returning to 21st Century Charter School in her new role – teacher.
What do you think of Raven Osborne's inspirational story? Do you think programs like the Middle College should be implemented nationwide?
[Featured Image by Purdue University Northwest]