When Dawn Hogan was 16, her family experienced financial hardship that forced them to leave Prince William County. A student in Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) at the time, Hogan decided to stay with family in the area to continue her schooling while working part time to earn money.
Like many students facing unexpected challenges, the necessity to earn money and address immediate needs often takes precedence over their educational aspirations.
“I had shifted my focus to working full time,” she said. “I was unable to continue school.”
In PWCS, educational opportunities exist for students needing flexible schedules and learning environments to earn their diplomas. One of those opportunities is the adult education program.
“The day that I saw the adult education program offering a high school diploma, my life changed,” Hogan said.
Offering virtual and in-person class options and flexible scheduling, the program helps adults earn their diplomas while balancing work and life commitments.
“I am a mother of two boys, ages 13 months and 6 years, and I want to be a great example for my children,” she said. “Through all the wonderful support that Prince William County adult education staff has provided me, I am proud to say that I finally have my high school diploma. I can now begin the next stage of my life.”
Hogan received a $500 National External Diploma Program (NEDP) Changing Lives Scholarship, which will support her postsecondary plans of becoming a nurse.
Eileen Rakshys, lead teacher for Adult Basic Education (ABE), General Education Development (GED), and NEDP through the PWCS Adult Education Program, stated that Hogan is an ideal candidate for the scholarship.
“Throughout the program, Dawn remained highly self-motivated, and goal driven. Dawn has a commendable work ethic. She managed to truly exemplify the qualities of a successful NEDP client: Goal oriented, strong time management skills, perseverance, and self-motivation,” shared Rakshys.
The PWCS Adult Education program provides extended educational opportunities for adults 18 years and older, with classes available across the county, including Manassas City and Manassas Park. The program offers high school completion options, including the GED and NEDP, as well as English classes and job skills programs.
“The Adult Education program offers numerous advantages that enhance people’s lives. These advantages contribute to personal development and play a crucial role in the collective health of our community,” shared Toi Tanton, adult education coordinator.
Classes are also available to develop essential job and life skills. Bridging classes help individuals explore career interests and develop the skills necessary for entering a career field. These courses include community engagement and citizenship preparation, digital literacy, customer service and sales, entrepreneurship, and small business management.
Registration for new students is now open. For more information, contact the adult education staff at [email protected], call 703-791-7357, or visit the Adult Education Program website.