Adult Learners Prepare for Good Jobs, Opportunities

Lisa Francis beamed with pride as she watched three of her adult children cross the stage to receive their high school diploma from the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL).

Gordon (21), Danny (20) and Meikka Francis (19) are among 17 Nova Scotians who received their high school diploma at a ceremony in Liverpool today, June 26. Six-hundred Nova Scotians graduated from NSSAL this month, and are now better prepared for good jobs and more school or training.

"These dedicated people have committed to making life better for themselves, their family and their community by completing their high school education," said Leonard Preyra acting Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. "Through the NSSAL, people are taking the necessary steps to prepare for good jobs all across the province that are awaiting them."

Ms. Francis recalled her own decision to return to school as an adult back in 2007.

"I was struggling to raise three kids on my own, and in order for me to make the best life possible for myself and my kids, I knew I had to get my high school diploma," said Ms. Francis, now a licensed practical nurse. "Once I completed my high school, I had the bug, and I went on to become an LPN. The diploma was the first step in helping me get a good job, and build a better life for my family.

"I wanted to set a good example for my children, and it looks like I have. I could not be more proud as I see my kids taking the first step to a better life. That really is what the diploma will do for them."

Through NSSAL, the province offers more than 150 tuition-free programs across the province, in partnership with the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), regional school boards, Universite Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations. The programs help Nova Scotians improve their literacy and employability.

Gordon and Danny Francis have both applied to NSCC and hope to begin post-secondary studies this fall.

"Gordon wants to be an electrical engineer, and Danny wants to do diesel mechanic. Meikka is exploring a career in child studies," said Ms. Fraser. "None of this would have been possible without their diploma."

More than 5,800 Nova Scotians have received high school diplomas through NSSAL, since it began in 2001.

For more information about the Nova Scotia School for Adult learning call 1-877-go-NSSAL (1-877-466-7725) or visit www.goNSSAL.ca .