GED gradaution held at Melody

Arkansas Northeastern College's Adult Education held its third graduation ceremony at the Melody Theater in Leachville at 7 p.m. June 28.

Mendy Thomas and Chris Shirley served as guest speakers for the graduation. Mrs. Thomas finished high school but had the dream of going onto college to earn a degree in teaching.

"I came to the Leachville Campus to brush up on my basic skill and found a whole group of people willing to help me go to school. Career Pathways, TRIO, and the Adult Education staff have helped me fill out paper work, prepare for entrance test, and gave me the encouragement and skills to be ready to start to school this fall. Most of all they have helped me be a role model for my children. How can I expect them to do what I have not done?" Thomas said.

Mr. Shirley received his Arkansas High School Diploma (G.E.D®.) in December of 2011 and then began college in January. "I have had the opportunity to play on the intermural basketball team representing ANC, while pursuing a degree to be a coach and math teacher," Shirley said. "The staff at the Leachville Campus have helped me to start down the road the achieving my dream."

More than 25 students received their Arkansas High School diploma from the instruction they received at ANC's Leachville Campus. The official G.E.D.® test is given on a regular schedule at the Leachville Campus as well as the college entrance test the eCompass, providing students the opportunity to complete their high school equivalency and start the process to enter college.

Sherryl Cooley, instructor for the adult education program, expressed her thanks to the city of Leachville for providing the facility for the college to use for the adult education graduation, the PEO members who provided refreshments for the students and their families, and Moba Lee Miller with the Melody Theater committee.

"The unlimited and community support for the program helps the program continue to be successful," Cooley said.

Beth Thompson, adult education coordinator, said, "Classes will start again on Aug. 21. Due to retirement and other changes the Leachville Campus schedule will change this fall, classes will be held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The classes and G.E.D.® test are free. Persons may call 870-539-2393 for more information."