Laurie Kesler, director of adult education at NEMCC, said the program gives adults a chance to change their lives, according to a NEMCC staff spotlight.
“Adult Education is one of the most rewarding jobs I could ever have because we have the opportunity to truly change lives,” Kesler said in the spotlight. She said the program focuses on helping people who, for various reasons, were not able to earn a high school diploma and that it takes courage to return and try again.
Kesler said staff act as cheerleaders for students. “Sometimes that means encouraging them, sometimes it means believing in them when they don’t believe in themselves, and sometimes it means simply holding their hand and walking beside them through the entire process,” she said. She added that support continues after students earn their HSE as staff guide them into college, training or better jobs.
Kesler said she is entering her 26th year in education and called adult education some of the most meaningful work of her career. “Every student has a different story, and every success reminds me why this work matters so much,” she said. NEMCC thanked Kesler in the staff spotlight for her work and dedication to the program.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
