I always tell prospective students that have a diploma from a bogus high school to consider getting their GED. For some students they feel like having a high school diploma is somehow better. It’s not better than anything if it’s not worth the paper it’s printed on. Our school keeps a list of area agencies that assist individuals in getting into GED classes, and we always recommend that route. If a student is serious about their education, they will do the right thing and get their diploma or GED from an acceptable institution.
We have faced this situation several times. It is always difficult to have to explain to a student that their high school diploma does not meet our standards nor the accredidation standards for the state where their "school" is located. Usually they are upset that they have been duped and spent time and money for what turns out to be a worthless piece of paper. Once we have gotten by the initial shock, we recommend the local GED sites and proceed accordingly.
We have had this situation come up a number of times. There isn't much you can do for the student other than be honest. We let them know their school doesn't meet our standard and usually give them the state GED information. The GED is fairly inexpensive and they can usually schedule quickly.
I have not personally sat with a student that had a diploma mill however, it has happened at my past employer. Typically this is found out after the student tries to apply. Once uncovered it is the duty (to my understanding) of the Admissions Representative to inform the studnt of illegitimacy of the diploma. I would also think it would be okay to point the student in the right direction of receiving a GED although I am not 100% certain. Advice?
