Adult Learners Graduate at NSCC in Pictou

The first thing Myrtle Shaw discovered when she returned to school is that you're never too old to learn. Ms. Shaw was 61 years of age when she signed up to complete her high school diploma for adults at the Nova Scotia Community College in Pictou. She is heading for university this fall.

"I was surprised that my age didn't matter to other students and teachers," said Ms. Shaw. "This experience has put me on a journey of learning. It has shown me that we all have the ability to accomplish anything we want in life. It just takes faith, hard work and determination."

More than 30 students will receive their high school graduation diploma for adults from NSCC in Pictou today, June 15, as part of the Adult Learning Program.

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

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

About 4,800 Nova Scotians are enrolled in programs supported by the School for Adult Learning at more than 170 sites across the province.

"By creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment to acquire a high school diploma, adults can access new possibilities and achieve a solid foundation for future success," said Mike Smith, NSCC's dean of access. "NSCC is proud to partner with the Department of Education in this progressive initiative that will improve the lives of many Nova Scotians."

The School for Adult Learning is funded by the departments of Education and Community Services, and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada.

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 workplace learning and job skills training.