Adult Learners Graduate in Digby

After turning 40 and working a succession of jobs throughout her life, some good and some bad, Patti Ann Melanson realized she needed more education. She returned to school and obtained her Grade 12 diploma to provide a better life and set a good example for her two children.

"Education is something that one can never get enough of," said Ms. Melanson. "This has been an exciting year for me. I have overcome obstacles, built my self-esteem, and made my children proud."

This year, more than 500 adult learners across the province will receive their high school graduation diploma through support from the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning. Ms. Melanson is one of 17 students graduating in the Tri-County area this week. She will graduate from Digby Adult High School today, June 28. A graduation ceremony at Yarmouth Adult High School will take place Friday, June 30.

The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning co-ordinates a range of education programs for adults who want to improve their reading and math skills, or complete their high school diploma. This year marks the school's fifth anniversary and the graduation of about 2,000 adult Nova Scotians with a high school diploma.

"There have been more than 20,000 enrollments in the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning in five years. It meets a significant need in our province for adults to improve their education, and ultimately, their job skills," said Education Minister Karen Casey. "I congratulate the graduates for taking steps toward a brighter future for themselves and their families."

The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning works in partnership with Nova Scotia Community College NSCC (NSCC), regional school boards, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations to offer programs at more than 170 sites across the province. The high school graduation diploma for adults was introduced in 2001.

"It has been my pleasure to work with another group of dedicated students. The balance between school and life responsibilities that the graduates have demonstrated is incredible," said Arthur Hatt, principal of Digby Adult High School. "I am honoured to congratulate and celebrate these outstanding individuals during their graduation events."

The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning is part of the provincial government's Skills Nova Scotia initiative that involves job skills training, workplace learning, and basic literacy skills upgrading.