Maryland Adult Learners' Forum 

Adult Learners' Stories 

  

 

On January 21, 1999, the Maryland State Department of Education and the Maryland Association of Adult, Community and Continuing Education (MAACCE) convened the Maryland Adult Learners’ Forum. The purpose of the Forum was to obtain views from recent and current learners in adult education and literacy services programs about the challenges and rewards of continuing their education. Adult learners representing programs in the state served as adult learners.

Thousands of Maryland adults do not possess the skills they need to achieve their personal, career or community goals. Such everyday activities as reading a newspaper, helping their children with homework, or writing a telephone message are difficult or impossible. Whether they are illiterate or lack English language proficiency, they are often severely challenged in their efforts to become productive workers and full participants in the life of the community. Adult education and literacy programs and services offer these adults a wide range of opportunities for acquiring the skills they need.

The stories contained in this booklet are excerpts from the experiences of the Adult Learner Delegates as participants in the various programs in the state since then.

Our Stories in 2008

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PERSONAL EXPERIENCE 

Juanita

I had many reasons to come back to school. I was out of my comfort zone, I was not used to talking or communicating with other people, and I always stayed to myself. Going to school gives me a chance to interact with people, talk with people, and become part of society. Going to school gives me independence because, in school, I stand on my own. Instead of letting other people do things for me, I am doing for myself. I am providing for myself by getting an education. I am growing because now I get to go to school and volunteer at church on Sunday. I got to know different people and different types of people. I interact with people, I want a good job doing something I like to do and I like being around children. Maybe, I can work in the school system or in childcare. I want financial stability; I guess I want enough money to care for my family in today’s society. When my children see me going back to school to get a diploma, they will probably stay in school and finish. We know that education means a lot.

Juanita, Family Literacy Class

February, 2008

 

Malabani


My name is Malabani. Before I came to United States of America, I could hardly express myself in English. When I arrived here, my ambition was to improve my English language skills. I therefore signed up to take English language classes with the Montgomery College Adult English language program.
 
As an advanced student, I find the program good but challenging. On November 12, I accepted a request from Ms Rita, the Site Mentor at White Oak Middle School, to serve as an interpreter during parent/teacher conferences at Gaithersburg Elementary School. My job involved helping French-speaking parents communicate in an understandable manner with ESOL teachers in the school. I was very scared because I did not trust my English... the teachers put me at ease by speaking slowly and waiting for me to interpret. I had to take notes as either a teachers or a parent spoke. Then I would interpret either to the parent or the teacher, using French or English, as the case might be.
 
It was a great opportunity for me to practice my English. It was also a great opportunity for me to get to know something about the school system and how teachers work with parents. But above all it was an opportunity for me to gain confidence speaking in English. I thank Rita for giving me this opportunity.
 
Montgomery College

 

Linda

Margie joined the Glen Burnie Town Center Basic Skills Class in September of this year. She had tried Basic Skills Classes in the past, but had never followed through with them. Her goal has been to increase her math and her reading skills. She writes wonderful poems, but sometimes has difficulty reading them back after she has written them. The first thing I noticed about Margie when she entered class was her wonderful "can do" attitude. Margie has missed only three days of class this semester despite being diagnosed with breast cancer, going through chemotherapy, and having a blood clot surgically removed from her leg. Through her hard work, she has dramatically improved her reading skills. She never hesitates to participate in class, does homework on a regular basis, and willingly helps peers if they are having difficulty understanding something she has just learned. I am hopeful that her positive attitude and dedication will enable her to reach her dream of earning a high school diploma. Margie received an Outstanding Lifelong Learning Award at the MAACCE Conference this May due to her dedication to learning.

In August of 1998, Campbell Soup Company closed their factory in Chestertown, Maryland where I worked for 24 years. The Kent County Adult Education Program helped me to improve my learning ability and skills, so that I could find another job. Six months later I applied for a job which was in Newark, Delaware through Norrell Services. A week after filling out my application I was asked to come and take a test which I passed thanks to this program. On that same day, I was hired at Dupont/Dow Co. In order to have an opportunity to become a full time Dupont/Dow employee, I was required to have a GED or High School Diploma. Through the External Diploma Program I was able to receive my High School Diploma in June of 1998, which will afford me future employment opportunities.

I was a special education student and I had a fourth grade reading level when I dropped out in the eleventh grade. I'm 29 years old now and I came to the Kent County Adult Education classes to improve my skills so I can get a good job. The classes have helped me to understand and to learn more than I did when I was in school. In class I'm working on how to count and handle money, and improve my reading and writing skills. Now, when I go apply for a job I can understand the application more clearly because my reading is a lot better. I have been coming to these classes for almost a year now and I have learned a lot, and I have a lot more to learn.

My name is Donald. I'm 42 years old and dropped out of school in the 10^th grade to hang with the "Big Boys." In my years of elementary school I was always sick and missed a lot of time. I never really took interest in school. I always pretended something was wrong even when it wasn't. Because of my age the school kept passing me and I never really learned to read.

As a result, as time went on I started using drugs to be a part of the gang. I used drugs for 18 years. During that time I had a son, but because of my lifestyle and lack of education, I felt I couldn't be the father I wanted to be. At age 34, I stopped using drugs. My self-esteem at that point was so low I still couldn't tell anyone that I could not read. I realized that being clean was not enough; I had to do more.

Growing up with an alcoholic mother and a deadbeat father was really rough. I had so many mixed emotions and unanswered questions. As a little girl things that confused me didn't seem to matter to anyone else. I didn't have the average nine-year-old lifestyle and was made to grow up very fast. Day-by-day survival was an enormous challenge for me. At the age of eleven I had to be responsible for eight other sisters and brothers. There was no room in my life for an education. A lot of the time I felt like it just wasn't in the cards for me to succeed.

At age sixteen I enlisted in Job Corps Center for Women. I started with so much confidence only to get another set back. After being in Job Corps for six months an announcement came over the intercom that President Nixon was axing the LPN program in June 1968. I enlisted on the premise that I'd complete my GED and go right into the LPN training course. Due to circumstances beyond my control, I found myself right back where I started from. I started to lose all confidence in myself, my self-esteem was at an all time low. Then my husband saw a commercial on TV concerning the Cal Ripken Learning Center. I called the number and was given an appointment for an interview. My adrenaline began to race. Should I dare dream again? Now I feel confident for the first time and know I will complete my education. I'm having fun in a class where everyone wants to learn. That in itself gives my so much confidence and inspiration, not to mention the teachers and the tutors who are so patient and understanding. If I can go back to school after being disappointed so much anyone can.

My name is Kenza. I am from Morocco. I am married and have two children -one ten-year-old daughter, Leila, and a thirteen-year-old son, Amin. I have worked in the past for a few years, but I now stay at home due to a back injury; however, I enjoy the job of staying at home with my family.

I have traveled in and out of the United States for ten years because my husband, Blain, is in the United States Navy, and we must move every three years. For this reason, my schooling had been delayed. When we moved to St. Mary's County, I decided to try returning to school in the ESL (English as a second language) class. I studied there for about a half a year, and was then sent to the GED class.

I think it's going to take me a bit more time to get my GED, but I will not give up until I do get it.

My name is William and I am a recovering addict, who has been blessed with being clean for four years and nine months. I decided once I became clean, that I wanted to work in the field of substance abuse, since I had witnessed the disease of addiction from firsthand knowledge for many years. The only way I could fulfill this goal was by continuing my education, so I enrolled in the South Baltimore Learning Center to work toward obtaining my GED.

Upon obtaining my GED, I will seek enrollment at a two- or four-year college with the purpose of receiving a degree in the substance abuse area, which will enable me to gainfully seek employment in a state or private agency that deals with helping individuals who have problems with substance abuse.

When I enrolled in the learning center it seemed somewhat foreign because I had been out of school for such a long period of time, but I soon found that the foreigners turned to eagerness to learn everything I could. I was ready to take on anything that seemed difficult and achieve my necessary grades to move to the next level of education.

The learning center has improved my ability to understand and comprehend the English language and has given me a chance to understand the different mathematical functions.

So when I achieve the goals that I have set for myself, then I will really be able to say that I have been truly blessed.

My name is Mary; I am 42 years old. I have five daughters. My husband passed away six years ago. To make ends meet I went to work part-time making minimum wage. I have been at my present job five years, still making only minimum wage. I could see that I'd have no future if I continued in that direction.

I have always dreamed of working in the nursing field. However, having only completed the sixth grade, I knew this would be impossible. With encouragement from a friend, I called the South Baltimore Learning Center and made arrangements to attend GED classes.

The staff at the South Baltimore Learning Center were very positive, informative and encouraging; I knew from my very first visit to the center that my dreams of working in the nursing field would come true.

My name is Margaret. I live in Glen Burnie, Maryland. I am in the adult learning class at Anne Arundel Community College located at the branch office at Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard in Glen Burnie.

My reasons for going into the adult education classes were to be able to learn what I needed to get my GED. I had dyslexia and was very slow at reading when I went to school. I stopped my education in junior high school because it was too difficult for me.

I decided to go back to school because I heard there was a program to help people with dyslexia to learn to read. I wanted to better myself and I still want to fulfill my dream to become a writer.

One of my hobbies is to write poetry. I also like to do crafts and art projects, bowling and spending time with my friends. I love to go to church and sing in the choir.

Hello, my name is Merian, a mother of four children. The reason I chose to continue my education was to build a better more stable future for my young children. While at the same time creating within the children a drive to want to excel in life no matter the barriers that they may encounter in life. While continuing my education, I realized that not only was I becoming more marketable in the job world, but that also my self-esteem had risen a great deal. While obtaining my GED was a wonderful achievement, I must say that another achievement was met as well. Before receiving my diploma I failed the test 3 times, in math by 1 point, passing on the third time. You might ask, what is the achievement in this? Well, for me to find within myself the ability to keep trying until my goal had been met, was one of the most important attributes that is needed in order to succeed in life. I am presently employed with Baltimore County Department of Social Services as a Data Device Operator III.

My name is Roselinda and I am a native of the Philippines. I am married with three children--two girls and a boy--and two granddaughters. At the age of ten, my father told me that I would have to remain at home to help with other siblings.

With my children all grown, I realized I had some free time on my hands. I decided to enroll in the Adult Education classes to pursue my dream of obtaining my high school diploma, enrolling in February 1998. I never realized that I would be able to obtain my diploma in such a short period since I had only finished the fourth grade. But in May 1998, the instructors advised me that I was ready to take the test. I took the examination in July 1998, but ended up with a score of 224, one point shy of passing the test. I didn't let this deter me and in October 1998, I tested again, this time passing the test with a score of 235. I never realized that I knew so much, increasing my self-confidence.

In addition to being a Home Engineer and raising three children, I'm also a Licensed Day Care Provider. I enjoy reading, doing crossword puzzles, crocheting and volleyball. My one goal in life since childhood is to become a lawyer, with my diploma I would like to think that this goal is achievable.

Sunee

I am an ABE student in evening classes at Washington Middle School. Growing up, I lived in St. Joseph's convent in Thailand and enjoyed helping the nuns with the orphans so much that I neglected my regular academic studies. Unfortunately, that is why I am back in school as an adult. The rewards of helping others though, are primary to my search for a career. Helping others makes me feel good about myself. It gives me energy and strength. I feel lucky. It's very healthy.

My formal education consisted of grades one to three in Korat City, Thailand. I then moved to Bangkok with my mother where I attended weekend and summer classes at the convent. I enjoyed helping the nuns, so when my mother moved back to Korat, I stayed to work at the convent. When I first met my husband, I could speak no English and he spoke no Thai. We communicated by showing pictures of what we wanted to each other. Gradually I learned English.

I am primarily working on writing skills and spelling. Previous reading classes helped me to do grocery shopping and other things. I studied very hard to become a U. S. citizen and passed the test in 1990. My first job in the U.S. was at Blind Industries, assisting the blind seamstresses. In 1998, I quit when a new supervisor required me to write reports about my job. I have enrolled in Adult Education classes so that I can improve my writing skills. I hope to accomplish my goal of attending college to learn sign language to assist the deaf and take other classes to enable me to work with people with disabilities.

My name is Pamela and I have lived in Salisbury all of my life. I have a wonderful family which includes my son, Chris, and my husband, Tracy. They are very supportive of me. There are several reasons I made the decision to continue my education. I want to receive my high school diploma and to become more knowledgeable. I have had managerial experience in the restaurant business. Now I would like to choose another career for my future. Before, I could do basic Math and Reading. After attending the Adult Education Program in Wicomico County, I can now do more advanced subject work. I feel better about myself. I am proud of the progress which I have made.

My name is Preston, and I will be 54 years old on January 26. I was born and raised in Worcester County, Maryland. My parents didn't have any education. I went to school until I quit when I was about 16 years old. After I quit school, I did a lot of different jobs, including working on a clam boat for six years. I have worked for the Worcester County Roads Department for the last 15 years. I also do powerwashing on my own time, and I would like to learn the plumbing trade.

I know that a good job today requires at least a high school diploma. The county won't hire you now without one, so things have changed. My goal for the future is to get my GED. Right now I am working hard to learn to spell better and to practice writing. I want to learn how to write to express what I want to say. Reading skills are important to me because I know they will help me. You have to be able to read manuals and directions when you work.

I first came to the Adult Education Program because I wanted to turn my life around. I am willing to learn. I'm always adding new words to a list in my notebook so I can learn how to say and spell them. If I can learn one new word a day, I feel good about myself.

Carroll (better known as Pete), before attending LIFT (Learning is For Tomorrow) did not know how to read. He desperately wanted to learn how to read and improve his math skills, which is why he came to an Adult Education Program.

Since attending LIFT, Pete's reading and writing have improved. He feels better about himself. Pete demonstrates more confidence with regard to learning as well as other aspects of his life. Being a participant in the LIFT program has allowed Pete to make many new friends. Pete is very proud of himself for getting into an educational program.

His interests include drawing, putting puzzles together, dancing, and playing bingo.

Ronnie was born in Virginia, and came to Baltimore to attend the Job Corp program in 1976 after his mom died. Ronnie decided to come back to school to better himself, improve his reading and writing skills, and obtain his GED.

He realized that since attending LIFT he has more confidence in his abilities. Ronnie feels that classes at LIFT gave him the motivation to read better. He discovered that everybody can learn how to read once they are committed. He also realized that teachers really do care.

After obtaining his GED, Ronnie wants to go to college and eventually become a lawyer. He also would like to come back to LIFT and help others with their reading and writing skills.

His hobbies are reading, boxing, listening to jazz, and playing the saxophone.

I am 51 years old and I am a slow learner. I can read good but I have trouble with math. I am trying to get a better job but I need my diploma to get it. I do a lot of church work. I am an usher and I go out and minister to homeless people. I also go to Bible classes. I have learned a lot in school. I have a good teacher and she helps me a lot.

David has been a student in the Glen Burnie Basic Skills Class since January, 1998. He has been a very dedicated learner and is always the first student to arrive in class. He has missed only three class sessions. David has not had an easy lift. David’s addiction to drugs in his earlier years has made it very difficult and frustrating for him to learn. Without his high school diploma, he has had difficulty finding jobs. This year he has struggled with trying to obtain SSI benefits due to his disability. Through it all, David maintains a positive attitude and tries extremely hard in class. He gladly participates in group lessons and has never missed doing a homework assignment. He has made tremendous progress in class, especially in math. David’s dream is to enter the External Diploma Program and to find a good job. I hope this program and his continued dedication will help him achieve his goal.

My name is JoeAnne and I am 33 years old. I am a single parent with three daughters and I wish to make a better life for them and myself. This is not the first time I have attended classes at the Adult Learning Center at the Dorchester County Board of Education. It is the first time my head and life seem to be together. I have been alcohol- and drug-free for almost a year and my life is finally coming together. I am going to sit for the GED test in February.

I also volunteer at Glasgow School which is an alternative school. I do this in the afternoons. My goals are to be successful and get a job in the school system as a teacher's aide or as a mentor.

My name is Julius Bartal. I was born 1957 in Komarno-Czechoslovakia. I am married and I have four children, two daughters and two sons. I have a technical education:

• Sheet metal and Lathe High School
• 2 years Technical School
• Technical work with metals

I am speaking several languages: Hungarian, Slovak, Czech, Russian, English and little French and Spanish. My hobbies are fishing and swimming. I started to learn English language one year ago at Howard Community College in Columbia, Maryland. We asked for permanent resident in the USA, and when we will stay live here. I will want to make High School Diploma this year and maybe next year some Technical at Business College.

Lawrence was born and raised in the Baltimore City. He attended Baltimore City Public Schools but was unable attain his High School Diploma. Lawrence was once one of many lost souls that had made poor decisions early in life. He became drug addicted and destitute. When all was thought to be lost, Lawrence had an awakening of the soul. He was introduced to an organization called the United Nuwaubian Nation of Moors. The primary focus of the organization is to teach black heritage and promote strong self-discipline. This organization lit a flame of passion in Lawrence's heart. He became completely aware of his purpose and gained understanding which helped him enroll in Narcotics Anonymous and Baltimore City Community College's Literacy Program. Lawrence's dedication and tenacity in class is unrivaled. He has his eyes on a prize and a sincere faith in his heart. Lawrence wants young people to work hard and be diligent in reaching their goals. His short term goal is to get his GED and enroll in college. Lawrence's long term goal is to manage and run his own business.

Michael entered the GED program at Baltimore City Community College on September 7, 1998. Determined and steadfast, he acquired his GED on October 11, 1998 and averaged a score of 56 on each section. Michael did not let this accomplishment satisfy his hunger for knowledge. He enrolled in an Urban League's program called Young Fathers, Responsible Fathers. Michael was so dedicated and diligent that he completed this six month program in just two months. Upon completion of this program, Michael received several awards including an award for performance in the area of Entrepreneurship, Personal Growth, 100% Attendance, and Father of the Year. After the Young Fathers, Responsible Fathers program, Michael decided it was time to look at what he wanted out of life and what he needed to do to get there. He decided to come back to Baltimore City Community College but this time seeking an Associates degree. Michael's placement test scores were extremely high and he received several scholarship awards from the college. He has been asked to address several mentoring programs, local public schools, and correctional institutions, regarding getting back on track and furthering their education. Michael has also been asked to appear on television and radio programs to tell his story and share his ideas. Michael is currently enrolled at B.C.C.C but has aspirations of obtaining his Master's in Juvenile Justice and Doctorate in Theology.

Terren is a 17-year-old GED student at the Montgomery Public Schools, Department of Alternative Programs, Adult Education Program. She finished her elementary education at Bancroft Elementary School in Washington, D.C., and completed her Middle School at Westland Middle School in Bethesda, Maryland. She attended Bethesda Chevy Chase High School, but dropped out of school in her first year. Terren was then placed in the Home and Hospital Teaching program.

When Terren turned 17, she started searching for a program that could help her to complete her secondary education. She called several places and finally came to the GED program of Montgomery County Public Schools. She came to take the Pre-GED test with her boyfriend's mother, who was also interested in the GED Program. Terren scored high in the GED Practice Test and was recommended to attend a GED class.

Terren was enrolled in a GED class at one of the Centers, Wheaton Regional Library. She did very well in the program in the fall 1998 session, and was able to take her GED Test on December 12, 1998. She is currently waiting for her GED results to begin looking for a program to further her education. She is interested in computer and has experiences in the use of the Internet.

Valli was born in 1952 in Guyana. She came from her native country, Guyana, twelve years ago. Valli finished high school in Guyana, and attended a Commercial School and learned typing and shorthand. She then worked as a secretary at a law office.

She married an American man and came to the United States. She has three children, all of them boys. After she came to the United States, she had training as a medical assistant. She wanted to continue her education in college, but she needed to get her GED. In 1994 she attended a GED class at the Montgomery Public Schools, Department of Alternative Programs, Adult Education Program. She then took her GED Test and passed the Writing Test.

Mrs. McDonald went back to take more courses at the Montgomery Public Schools Adult Education Program and enrolled in the GED class at Wheaton Regional Library in 1998. She did very well in the class and took the GED Test on December 12, 1998. She is currently waiting for her GED Test results to apply to a college program to further her education. She successfully passed the Literature and Social Studies, and will be returning to complete her Math and Science before the year 2000.

My name is Gale. I am 43 years old, married and the parent of two sets of fraternal twins age 24 and 26. I have two grandchildren both are boys, ages 5 and 3. I work as a Night Supervisor for the Howard County Board of Education's Custodial Department. Since I did not have a high school diploma and could not advance without it, I decided to go back to school to better my career. It was difficult going to school at the age of 42 and working full time. It was quite a challenge going back to school. I received my diploma through the External Diploma Program. The External Diploma was more about skills that we use in everyday living, current events, and on the job. Having a high school diploma has changed me so much, so that it is hard to put into words. It makes me want to do more studying and more schooling. I now can advance further in my job, I can now apply for jobs that I was unable to apply for without a high school diploma. My goal has been to be able to work with computers, but now I am also looking into the possibility of working with children with behavior problems and for this I know I will continue my schooling.

My name is Elsa, I was born in Angola, Africa in a province called Huambo. I have lived in Maryland for about two years with my mother and my brothers. In the beginning it was hard for me because English is my second language. But in April of 1997, I started going to school and there I learned a lot of things. I started feeling proud of myself because now I can make conversation. I can leave messages and I can write English and spell the words. And this year I am starting to study for the GED test because I want to go to college. I want to further my education, because it is the only thing that nobody takes from us.

My hobbies are reading, listening to music and writing. I like writing poems. When I write them I feel proud because I can do something that one day somebody will read and will feel the same as I felt when I put the sentences on the paper.

I also work, and at my first job I received the employee-of-the-month award. Now I have another job and I still work hard and my manager likes my work. I'm proud of myself.

Hello…my name is Joseph. I am 20 years old. I live in Garrett County, Oakland, Maryland. I'm in the GED classes because I need a diploma. Everyone knows that you need a diploma to get the simplest job. Another reason is once I get the diploma I could get into the army or some kind of technical school like ITT tech. Some activities I like to do are snowboard and play video games. Another activity I like is fishing. I fish a lot during the summer days. I work on and off for Bosley Construction. I'm glad there's an alternative way to get a diploma besides public schools. Some people have problems and this program allows you to get your problem over with and get a GED.

 

 

Garrett County Community College
Garrett County

My name is Dana and I live in Garrett County in Oakland, Maryland. I am 19 years old and have four members in my immediate family. I still live with my parents. I like to do carpentry work; it is my job and my hobby. I work carpentry part-time and I go to school at the Garrett Community College. The reason I went back to school to get my education is because I have a chance to work in Manassass, Virginia doing construction. If I have a high school diploma I will make more money. I think the Adult Basic Education classes are very important. I really appreciate you giving me the chance to attend the Maryland Learners Forum.

Hello, my name is Angela. I am 17 years old, and live in Oakland, Maryland. I am the sixth child in my family. I have three older brothers, two older sisters, and one younger sister. I have a job at Red Run Lodge busing tables and being a waitress. I really do not mind waiting on others, but I would rather do something more interesting. I am taking the GED class so I can get my diploma and join the Marines. I really appreciate getting a chance to start over.

I feel honored to be chosen to participate as an adult learner delegate. My name is Deborah and I just turned 30 years old in January of this year. I feel very grateful to God for blessing me with two very articulate and beautiful girls ages six and nine. They are two very special children in my heart. Without my children, many other people, and Project Literacy, I would never have been able to graduate from high school last year. Both of my children gave me all the love I needed, many other people gave me some financial and motivational help, and Project Literacy gave me a positive support system, free tutoring, and a grant for the majority of my tuition for the External Diploma Program.

It is very important to have programs like Project Literacy, because it was one of the main reasons I was able to graduate. I was a single mom with deceased parents and a very slim support system. Project Literacy was a very positive and motivating organization, that helped me succeed in accomplishing a very crucial dream that I had for years. Project Literacy helped take our lives down a road towards a more successful future. Programs like this are a tremendous help for people who want to succeed, but for many reasons just can't seem to.

Sherry withdrew from school at fifteen to get married and raise a family. By seventeen, Sherry was left to raise two small children on welfare. The future looked pretty grim, but Sherry did not give up. Referred to Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) by the Department of Social Services, Sherry took advantage of job training and volunteer work experience to build her employability skills. Sherry’s training soon opened the door to a part-time job as a fiscal clerk at the Department of Juvenile Services and eventually to a full-time position with Springfield State Hospital where she has worked for 11 years.

Last summer, Sherry brought her seventeen-year-old nephew, Michael, to a diploma options orientation to register for classes. Michael recently had withdrawn from high school and Sherry was convinced that they could "do this together." Sherry and Michael attended GED classes regularly, with Sherry providing the transportation and moral support. As a result of her persistence and encouragement, and their hard work, Sherry and Michael received their Maryland State High School Diplomas in December.

My name is Joyce and I returned to school at the age of 54. I have made my family and myself very proud. My skills and confidence are much higher and now I am able to be of more assistance to others. I recently received my high school diploma through the External Diploma Program. I went to Adult Basic Education classes to prepare for the EDP. I have been a daycare teacher for ten years. The reason I made up my mind to go back to school is because a child came to me at work and asked for my help with math and I could not help him. I knew I had to go back to school to better myself in my job. Now I can go into the homework area at the daycare and help the children. I can assist my grandchildren when they come to me with their homework. My goal is to open a daycare center in the mall at Waldorf. My hobby is soccer and I used to help as an assistant coach. I would like to get a team together, ages 4 to 12, from my daycare and play other daycares in the area. 

Hi, my name is Tammy. I’m twenty-one years old and married with two kids and pregnant with my third. My daughter, Justina, is six; my son, Robert, is four; and my baby is due in June. I started coming to The Aberdeen Family Support Center when my son was a baby, and I’ve been running strong since. I’m going to take my GED test in March.

I come from a very difficult and confused family. My family is very large; there are nine kids altogether. There are three boys and six girls. I am the oldest girl. My mom and dad fought all the time. My dad was an alcoholic and would beat us over everything that we would do, and usually the older kids got the worst of the beatings. I promised myself my children would never experience what I did. So I got pregnant with my daughter when I was fourteen and moved in with her father and we’ve been together ever since. I didn’t really drop out of school. I graduated from the eighth grade into the ninth grade but at the beginning of the next school year I never went back. So I decided to get my GED because of my two children. I’ve overcome a lot to get here, but I’m here.

Linda is from Hong Kong. She immigrated to the U.S. in 1985. She is married and has three daughters and one son. Two of her children graduated from the University of Maryland and the younger two are college students there. Linda worked at the Hyatt hotel in Bethesda from 1985 to 1993. She was chosen employee of the year twice. In 1993, she quit her job to assist her husband in his business in Baltimore — a Chinese Restaurant. They sold the restaurant last year and now she is a housewife. She is hoping to become a social worker in the future. She enjoys swimming, sewing, and reading in Chinese. Her father, a former teacher, believed in a good education. Five of his seven children graduated from college; Linda, the oldest, and her sister did not. Linda wants to learn more and try to be a college student. She learns vocabulary, grammar and writing in ESOL classes in Montgomery County. She says that she understands English but has difficulty speaking it correctly, and this is why she needs more education. She is an American citizen, and she wants to talk like an American, so people will think of her as American, not foreign.

Guillermo is from Colombia. He’s a Colombian Architect. He is married and has two children. He’s been in the United States for about a year and a half. He came to the United States because his wife got a university fellowship here. Guillermo’s family is the most important thing to him, but working is very important to him too. However, he cannot work in the United States, so he feels frustrated. He is unable to work here for two reasons: his language proficiency and his visa status. As the first step in his professional development in the United States, he has been attending ESOL classes in Montgomery County. He has also been a volunteer in the office of the Montgomery County Adult Education ESOL Program. He plans to continue attending ESOL classes and being a volunteer. Also, Guillermo loves sports, especially tennis and soccer.

Hi, I am Chantae. I’m 18 years old and a single mother. I have a two-year old child named Allen. I always liked school. But when I started high school it was so much fun, and we had too much independence. Then I got into a lot of things like boys and more, but not any schoolwork!

I became pregnant in 1996. I was in school, but it was a lot harder for me because I was pregnant. I was very sick. So I had to stop going to school. I had home tutoring until I had the baby. I couldn’t go back to school because I had no one to take care of Allen. But I started at The Aberdeen Family Support Center and I have been here for one year. I am going to take my GED test very soon. 

My name is Tamara. I was received into the world by my wonderful parents Franklin and Margaret Meadows in 1968 in Takoma Park, Maryland. I have one child, Christopher Franklin Meadows, of whom I am very proud. I was educated through the Anne Arundel County School system in my life prior to the time I decided my education was no longer important to me. I currently hold an exciting administrative position at Absolute Nursing Care.

The External Diploma Program has allowed me to maintain stability in my employment and family while accomplishing the goal of receiving my High School Diploma in the Graduating Class of 1998. I feel my next goal should be to improve my education in the business of Health Care Administration.

The External Diploma Program has opened up many opportunities for me. The most important was the moment my family told me how proud they were of me.

Henry is a recent graduate of the External Diploma Program. He is 53 years old and resides in Glen Burnie. He is a father of two adult boys from a previous marriage and has an 11 year old daughter, Kelly, with his second wife, Barbara. A carpenter by trade, his work is as diverse as his talent and ambition. Besides his own work as owner of his own company, he also installs for the mill work department of Home Depot.

With all his responsibilities as owner of H & P Home Improvements, husband, and father, something was always missing and to him, getting his diploma was a personal achievement and his greatest triumph. Since October, Henry and his wife have been volunteering at EDP as tutors and they really get a great sense of satisfaction by helping others to work toward getting their diplomas. Henry urges anyone who needs to get their diploma, no matter what their situation, to go to EDP and start taking the necessary steps to get it. Anyone can do it but it is this particular program that helped Henry achieve his goal.

My name is Aida, I am from Colombia, S.A. I am married and have 2 children (13 & 3 years old). I worked as a secretary for 7 years and I went to school in Colombia for 16 years. I completed my degree to teach. Twelve years ago I came to U.S.; by then I knew some of the English grammar, but I could not speak. Even though I had the skills and I had an education it was very difficult to communicate with other people. One day I was watching TV, when I saw the advertisement about the Literacy Council Program. I could understand what the program was about, I wrote down the phone number and had my brother call. Then I got my tutor, I started to understand English more and more every day. Little by little I was able to communicate, having small conversations and making phone calls. As time passed I learned more and more, I become more interested and I continued learning in every way possible. I know I still have a lot to learn, (the learning experience never ends!) but this program was a great beginning for me and it has been a great help in my daily life situations. It really opened many doors to me as to my family, too. I am so grateful for being part of this wonderful program. In the present I am working with Montgomery County Public Schools, as a secretary. Finally, because of family matters I haven't been able to go to school to do my masters, but as soon as it will be possible I will.

Montgomery County Literacy Council
Montgomery County

Hi. My name is Hope, and I would like to tell you a little about myself. I have lived in Salisbury, Maryland for seven years. I have a wonderful family. I most enjoy doing things with my two-year old daughter, Ashley, and my husband, Bill.

I am a student at the Wicomico County Adult Learning Center. My first goal is to get my GED. The next thing I plan to do is to go on to cosmetology school. Then I can have the career I have always wanted.

No one pressured me to return to school. I made that decision myself. Here I can work at my own pace and choose my work to do each day. Each day my self-esteem improves. I am determined to achieve my goals.

I was born in Baltimore, one of a family of 12 children. I attended a lot of school while I was growing up. My first year in high school was in Charlottesville, Virginia. I was forced to drop out when I became pregnant at 15 years of age. I am now a mother of five and have been married since June 1993. I've been unable to find a job that made me happy so I decided to go back to school. I want to show my children that an education is the most important thing in the world. While in the External Diploma Program I decide to become an accountant. The External Diploma Program is the first step to getting a better life for my family. Through the program I have learned more about the world than I ever had before. The people at the External Diploma Program are encouraging to others. They really show that they care about the program and the people. After I get my diploma I plan to attend a college in the area. I would like to thank the Maryland Education Department for the External Diploma Program.

Washington County Adult Education
Washington County

My name is Anasia. I'm a 26-year-old single mother of three small children, a five year old and set of two-year-old twins. I'm a strong, determined woman with a good head on my shoulders. I was a straight A student when I was in High School, but I had to leave school for a while. I was the oldest child in my family and I had to work when my father became ill. While working I still managed to go back to school full time, but I had to drop out due to my very hectic work schedule. Three years later I had my daughter, Tori. That's when I decided that Tori and I needed bigger and better things. I continued to work, and I enrolled in a GED program at Southwestern Family Center. I completed my GED, and I enrolled in computer education courses at BCCC. Then I became the Administrative Assistant at the Southwestern Family Center. After those major accomplishments, I found out that I was pregnant with twins and I thought of it as a blessing. From that point I knew I had to stay strong for my now three children. It was a big adjustment for us all.

My job at Southwestern Family Center is so important to me. The center gave me a chance to continue my education in a personalized and respectful manner. When I received my diploma, all I thought of was giving back to the Center that changed my life. Every face I see coming through the doors reminds me of myself and anything that I can do for that student is my responsibility. Since working here I realize what I need to do with my life. Social Work. Hopefully I will be able to start school in the near future.

My name is Martin. I am 31 years old, married, and have one son. Currently, I have two jobs which involve taking care of horses for the Ocean City Police Department and a private individual.

My current goals in life are to first get my GED and then go to college so I can improve my skills so I can get a better job. I have just learned that my first goal has been reached! I passed the GED Tests in December. I came from a place in Mexico where you only get six years of free school. After that, if you want to continue school you have to pay. That is why most of us quit school after the first six years. I know a better education is the way to get a better job.

Six years after dropping out of high school I realized that I needed a more stable income than what I was getting by waitressing. I went back and got my diploma so that I could better my education.

Now, less than a year later I am managing that restaurant that I was waitressing at. Not only did getting my diploma better my education, but it was such a sense of accomplishment that it has made me a much stronger person.

My name is Judy. I was born in Easton, Maryland August 30, 1951. I was raised in Stanford, Connecticut by my Godparents until the age of six years old. I then moved back to Easton, Maryland with my mother and father. I attended first through sixth grade at Glenwood Elementary School. After completing the sixth grade I went to Moton High School seventh through eighth grade until schools were integrated. I then went to Easton High School until I reached the tenth grade. I passed to the 11^th grade, it was then that I decided to quit high school at the age of seventeen years old.

In 1975 I got a job working at Memorial Hospital working in housekeeping. After working in housekeeping a few months, my supervisor John Mastone decided to start a GED class for those who did not finish school. I have been in GED class for two years. My goal is to pass my GED test. This class has really helped me in Reading, English, and Math, not to mention also with my job. I am now working as a Nursing Tech. I would like to advance to become a Nursing Assistant. I have been employed at Memorial Hospital for 13 years I would like to increase my knowledge and advance myself while employed there.

Other than nursing my favorite hobby is sewing. I am really looking forward to achieving the goal of receiving my GED to further my career. One things for sure, I found out the hard way about getting a good education. I should have stayed in school and never quit. Your future depends on it.

Steve works as a maintenance mechanic for Alcoa Eastalco Works in Frederick, Maryland. Steve has worked for the company for almost four years. When he decided to pursue completion of his GED, Steve took advantage of the on-site Learning Lab, provided as an employee benefit by Alcoa Eastalco Works and staffed with an Adult Education Instructor from Frederick County Public Schools. Steve used the Fasttrack assessment and PLATO software to brush up on his skills, and passed the GED in November, 1997. Steve lives in West Virginia with his wife and two sons.

Tony obtained his high school diploma in 1991 at the Baltimore County Detention Center (CCF). He passed on his first attempt and stayed on to become a tutor in the GED program. He was a diligent student, and it was a pleasure to work with him. His academic achievement, attitude towards learning, and respect for those with whom he came into contact with served as an inspiration to other students.

Upon release, he relapsed. Drugs and alcohol made it difficult to continue with school as he had planned. Tony got married, and after joining the "Helping Up Mission," he was accepted into a 13-month spiritual program from which he graduated in November 1998. His goal is to become a minister and help others who have similar difficulties. He currently is working with the same mission and enjoys his job.

Idalia was born in Panama. She moved to the United States in 1994. She lived on the military base in Idaho with her husband for one year. Then she moved to Maryland, where she lives now. She attended ESL classes at the Family Support Center in Denton, Maryland. She is now employed with the Even Start Program as an interpreter and liaison to the Latin community. She is currently working on her English and plans to go to Salisbury State.

1968 was a year in a decade that held significant and decisive changes for us all. I looked forward to graduating from high school that year, but because of an illness and recurring hospitalizations, that dream fell by the wayside.

The urge to complete my studies prompted me to attend a GED class the following year. Unfortunately I never followed through when it was time to take the final test.

To my amazement I was transformed from a somewhat shy and timid person to someone who had no scruples about calling the CEO of a corporation asking for donations to our band program. I soon went on to help head band auction committee.

Through this all, my driving force were all the young people who were so appreciative of my help. They were all like an extended family, who often told me I would make a great teacher. I didn't have the heart to tell them that I didn't have a high school diploma.

My decision, last September, to enroll in the GED program is due in part to the wonderful kids, and my desire to do something positive with what God has given to me. Received Maryland High School Diploma in June and was one of the speakers. I am now a paraprofessional working with a GED teacher at St. Mary’s County Education Center. September has enrolled in Charles’s Community College. To think it all began with the first step.

The program design especially met my needs in terms of schedule flexibility which was very important to me in continuing to meet my job and family responsibilities. I sometimes felt overwhelmed, but the support and understanding that I received from my family played a great part in my success. I’d also like to extend special thanks to Brenda Hulbert and Bobbi Little, EDP advisors, for their dedication and encouragement. As well, I’d like to recognize my employer and Service Employees International Union, District 1199E-DC for their joint funding of this endeavor. Since my completion of the program, I have appeared as a spokesperson for the union, promoting education and training programs like EDP to supportive health care personnel. That, I now, have the confidence to do this still surprises me, but I know I could not have done it without the help of the External Diploma Program.

In terms of next steps, I plan to continue my education, beginning with courses in computers and computer technology, which I hope to begin this spring.

Baltimore County
Adult Education