Adult Learners Graduate In Cape Breton
Jennifer Billard of Glace Bay, can now pursue her dream of a career in cars. She is graduating with her adult high school diploma today, June 22, and is planning to attend the University College of Cape Breton to be an automotive service technician.
Jennifer is one of 55 adult students who has completed the Public School Program through one of the four adult education centres in the Cape Breton Victoria Regional school board.
"My incentive to return to school is my baby boy and the opportunity to support my family on my own," said Jennifer. "I can now pursue a career as an automotive service technician."
The adult education centres are 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, like Jennifer, 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."
The School for Adult Learning is funded by the departments of Education and Community Services.
"Our adults have adopted the motto 'It's never too late' which signifies the positive approach they have to their learning process", said Rick Simm, principal, adult education centre, Cape Breton Victoria Regional school board. "Our program can provide adults in the community an opportunity to complete their high school education and go on to higher learning."
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.