WESTBROOK, Maine — For the 2023 school year, nearly 1,000 high school credentials were awarded to adults enrolled in the Maine adult education system, according to the Maine Department of Education.
Despite facing numerous challenges, individuals are determined to receive their diploma, showcasing resilience and perseverance.
Gladis Filipe, a graduating senior, expressed her determination to continue her education despite facing obstacles along the way.
"I've always known I wanted to continue my education, and that's what I did," Filipe said.
Her journey to earning her diploma was marked by personal struggles, including becoming pregnant at a young age, which led her to leave school temporarily.
However, Filipe remained resilient, stating, "I failed science twice. I was crying every time I failed, and I just kept on going."
Reflecting on the diverse demographics of adult learners, the director of Westbrook Adult Education, Jen Mull-Brooks, emphasized the courage exhibited by these individuals.
"I look at these people when they come to our door as the most brave people because they are taking a huge risk on themselves and on trusting us to help them get back on track and finish what they started," Mull-Brooks said.
The significance of adult graduation ceremonies was underscored by Mull-Brooks, who described them as "the best graduations" due to the immense effort and personal investment put forth by each graduate.
Despite the challenges they faced, adult learners demonstrated unwavering determination to achieve their academic goals.
As the graduation date approaches, students like Filipe reflect on their journey with gratitude and pride.
"That was what made me who I am today," she said. "I had to go through those moments to be so structured and so determined."
The Westbrook Adult Education graduation is scheduled for June 11.