Ravenna – The smell of angel wing begonias and pride filled the air at the Maplewood Career Center’s Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE) GED graduation on Thursday, June 6, 2013. The room filled up with approximately 250 guests as they witnessed the 2013 GED graduates walk down the aisle to “Pomp and Circumstance.” Doris Schoning, Coordinator of the ABLE Program and Director of the Portage County Literacy Coalition, welcomed the GED graduates, their guests, and friends. The evening started off with a round of introductions and speakers, which included: Randy Griffith, Superintendent of Maplewood Career Center, Sarah Lawry, representing Senator Sherrod Brown, and Kathleen Clyde, Ohio House Representative.
Doris Schoning, the Adult Basic and Literacy Education Coordinator and PCLC Director, presented an “Outstanding Partnership” award to Kent’s Goodwill Industries Manger, Dee Gillespie. Later she presented an award to one of the volunteer tutors, Patti Akers, for her dedication and commitment to the ABLE reading students.
Continuing Education Student, Fiona Harris who spoke at the event, and three GED graduates, Shannon Bernard, Kayla Harper, and Hannah Kascle, shared their comments. The PCLC provides awards in literacy and scholarships every year to Adult Basic and Literacy Education students. Laure Gauntner, the PCLC President, presented awards to three literacy students this year, which included: James Howerton, Heather White, and Shirley Goslin. Doris Schoning, Coordinator of the Adult Basic and Literacy Education Program and PCLC Director, presented the Helen Jane and Don M. Wilson, Jr. Scholarship to two ABLE students. The first award was given to a student that is starting college at Kent State University in the medical field, Amanda Griffith. The second award was given to a student that is currently attending Kent State University and continuing her education in Computer Sciences, Fiona Harris.
Finally, Dan Rogge, Director of Adult Basic Education, called students up to the stage to receive their certificates. Excitement began to buzz through the air as the GED graduation ceremonies came to an end. Randy Griffith, the Maplewood Career Center Superintendent, looked into the crowd of proud and excited graduates and asked them to turn their tassels. Doris Schoning stated a few exiting words before the graduates left the room as the song “Stars and Stripes” played.
Many thanks were given to all that have helped in making this event a success. Also, there was a tremendous thank you given to the Portage County Retired Teacher’s Association for taking the time to make cookies, which they served with cake and punch.
All of our Adult Basic and Literacy Education classes are free. If you are in need of your GED, are interested in brushing up on English or math skills, or are transitioning into post-secondary education, training, or trade, please call at us at (330) 235-0020 for more information.
Pictured above from left to right: Amanda Griffiths, PCLC Scholarship Winner; Randy Griffith, Maplewood Career Center Superintendent; Shian Davenport, High Score Award Winner; James Davenport, Literacy Award Winner; Shirley Goslin, Literacy Award Winner; and Doris Schoning, ABLE Coordinator/PCLC Director
