First High School Diplomas for Adults Granted

Nearly 150 adult Nova Scotians are in the first graduating class of the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning.

The school grants the new Nova Scotia High School Graduation Diploma for Adults. Twenty-five graduates will receive the diploma at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) convocation ceremonies in Bridgewater, Shelburne and Yarmouth this week.

The school and diploma were created by the Department of Education to give adults a recognized credential for having completed courses for their high school education. The diploma is similar to the credential granted to traditional high school students, but is earned in ways that are more suited to adult learners.

"This diploma is a stepping stone toward a brighter future," said Education Minister Jane Purves. "A high school education has become necessary for many more jobs in our economy. These graduates now have the foundation they need to pursue those jobs and further education."

Nancy Corkum is an Adult Learning Program graduate from the Lunenburg Campus of the community college. She completed courses for her high school diploma in December and has already begun the college's practical nursing program.

"My kids see me going to school and staying up until midnight or later, so they know that they have to get their education now while it comes to them easier," said Ms. Corkum, a single mother of four and personal-care worker. "But it's good for my self- esteem to work hard."

Adult learners can earn credits toward the diploma through several education organizations. The School for Adult Learning provides funding to education organizations to cover tuition for eligible adults. The school also provides advice to help students take the right courses in the right location to meet their goals.

Nova Scotia Community College is one of the organizations offering courses leading to the diploma. More than 800 students are enrolled in the Adult Learning Program at 11 of the college's 13 campuses. Students can enter the program throughout the calendar year.

This June, 112 students are graduating from the program and will receive the high school diploma for adults. Eight students are graduating from the college's Lunenburg Campus in Bridgewater today, June 12. Nine students from Shelburne Campus and eight from Burridge Campus in Yarmouth will graduate on June 14.

"The Adult Learning Program is fundamentally about removing barriers by meeting learners where they are and thereby opening a world of opportunity that previously did not exist," said Ray Ivany, president, Nova Scotia Community College. "NSCC is proud to be a partner in helping students earn the high school diploma for adults. The Department of Education is to be commended on such a progressive policy initiative that will improve the lives of many Nova Scotians."

Adult learners aiming for the diploma can also attend classes at Collège de l'Acadie and adult high schools. Where and what they study depend on their prior learning, their goals and when and where they are able to attend classes.

The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning was launched in September 2001. It is currently supporting more than 3,000 students enrolled at various levels of study with participating education organizations.

In addition to the June 2002 college graduates, more than 40 adults will be granted the diploma after earning credits through other education organizations.

The School for Adult Learning operates with $3.7 million in provincial funding each year. The Department of Education provides $3.2 million of this funding while the Department of Community Services provides $500,000. Human Resources Development Canada is also supporting the school.