Adult students who completed programs and obtained their certifications with the Community Education Program in the Socorro Independent School District were honored in a special commencement ceremony Jan. 27 in the Eastlake High School theater.
The evening event included a keynote speaker, speeches by graduating students and remarks by the program’s director Patricia Cuevas, in which she praised the 43 graduates for their resilience.
“They are willing to come put their best foot forward by investing in their education because they know that it’s going to open doors for them,” Cuevas said. “Some of them come straight after work and others take the classes while having a family to take care of full time at home, but they are motivated.”
Community Education is a non-traditional program that serves adult students ages 17 to 80 by providing them with classes and certification opportunities that help then complete their education or get them ready for the work force. The opportunities often lead to jobs or a career that potentially helps them better provide for themselves and their families.
The purpose of the program is to empower adults in the community to meet their career and educational needs by providing a continuum of services that promote the workforce and economic development of the region.
Mayra Rodriguez, who obtained her GED in Spanish, said she decided to join the program because of its flexibility, so that she could still be available for her children.
“It was a beautiful experience because I received the attention I needed and had an amazing teacher who supported me,” Rodriguez said. “I feel so grateful for the opportunity.”
Programs and classes within the Community Education program are organized around three main goals of adult students: to obtain a job or start a career, attend college or post-secondary training and to develop basic English language skills to function effectively as a parent or citizen.
All classes and certifications are offered at no cost to students who qualify and are accepted into a program of study.
Sendy Lopez, who completed her citizenship this year, also earned her GED through the program two years ago.
“I feel so proud of myself,” Lopez said. “The opportunities here are awesome because they are free and help you obtain the life that you want. Don’t lose the opportunity to improve yourself.”
Adult students can obtain their GED, earn vocational certifications, take ESL classes, and more through the SISD Community Education Program.
“Programs like this allow these students to change the trajectory of their life and of their families’ lives,” Cuevas said. “I am very humbled to lead a fantastic group of educators that go above and beyond to change lives and encourage the students to know that they can be successful.”
Community Education commencement ceremony event photos
Published February 15, 2023
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