Adult Learners Graduate in Valley

A high school diploma can be more than a piece of paper. For Sandra Phlen of the Annapolis Valley, the Nova Scotia high school diploma for adults is a symbol of her growing confidence and self-respect.

Sandra is one of 35 students graduating today, June 9, and Thursday, June 10 after completing the Adult Learning Program at the Annapolis Valley and Kingstec campuses of the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC).

"Completing the adult learning program at NSCC has been a phenomenal opportunity for me," said Sandra. "Everyone sees the changes in my confidence and self-respect. I stand up now for what I think and believe."

In the fall, Sandra will return to the college for the information technology program.

The Adult Learning Program is supported by the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning, which funds and co-ordinates a range of education programs for adults wanting to improve their reading and math skills or complete their high school diplomas.

"Through the School for Adult Learning, Nova Scotians can return to learning and help pave the way to a brighter future for themselves and their families," said Education Minister Jamie Muir. "The school is part of our effort to ensure people get the skills they need to succeed at home, at work and in the community."

The School for Adult Learning is funded by the departments of Education and Community Services.

"Ensuring NSCC is accessible to all Nova Scotians who want to pursue formal learning is key to the province's economic, community and social development -- that is what the Adult Learning Program represents," said Mike Smith, NSCC's dean of access. "By creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment to acquire a high school diploma, adults can access new possibilities, and achieve a new foundation for future successes. NSCC is proud to partner with the Department of Education in this progressive initiative that will improve the lives of many Nova Scotians."

More than 400 Nova Scotians are graduating this month with the high school diploma for adults. This year, more than 4,100 Nova Scotians were enrolled in programs supported by the School for Adult Learning at more than 170 sites across the province. The programs for adults are delivered by the Nova Scotia Community College, Université Sainte-Anne, five regional school boards and community-based learning organizations.

The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning is part of the provincial government's Skills Nova Scotia initiative, which involves training and skills upgrading, from basic literacy to the use of the most sophisticated technologies.