Adult Learners Graduate in Truro

When April Sorichetti became a mother, she found herself wanting to pursue a fulfilling career that could support her family and inspire her children. At the age of 34, her first step was to obtain her high school diploma.

"From the Amherst Adult High School I have acquired the necessary confidence and skills to pursue my goals," said Ms. Sorichetti.

This year, more than 500 adult learners across the province will receive their high school graduation diploma. Today, June 29, Ms. Sorichetti is one of 73 students graduating in Truro.

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), 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.

"I am so proud of our graduates as they have each worked hard and made personal sacrifices to achieve their goals," said Coleen Davidson, co-ordinator of community education and partnerships for Chignecto-Central Regional School Board. "Each graduate has taken a critical step forward in his or her life to pursue either ongoing studies or improved career options, and I am confident that they will all make a significant contribution to the future success of their communities, families and the province."

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.