Graduates of the HSE/ENL programs listen to remarks from DS Dr. Gladys I. Cruz at graduation on 6/12.
On Tuesday, June 12, Questar III’s Adult and Continuing Education programs honored graduates of the High School Equivalency (HSE) and English as a New Language (ENL) programs at its Central Office in Castleton. This year, 29 students completed their HSE requirements, and one student finished the ENL program.
District Superintendent Dr. Gladys I. Cruz, Deputy Superintendent Matt Sloane, and Board Member Ed Brooks each shared remarks congratulating the graduates on their achievement and encouraging them to continue pushing through difficult times to reach their goals.
ENL graduate Phyu Htwe spoke about coming to the United States from Myanmar (Burma), and learning English with hopes of being able to further her education in this country, as well as help others looking to begin life in America. HSE graduate Scott Roy, shared his experience of enrolling in the HSE program after reaching the top level of his previous job, and how earning his diploma allowed him to continue advancing in his career. Graduate Paola Rivera shared her story of moving to the US from Puerto Rico, and said the HSE program gave her opportunities to better her life and find new success here. For her dedication to her studies as well as responsibilities outside the classroom, Rivera was awarded the first-ever Helen A. Hughes Dedication to Learning Award.
The HSE (formerly GED) diploma is available for anyone aged 19 or above without a high school diploma. Statistics from the New York State Education Department show unemployment rates are about four percent lower for individuals with a high school diploma or HSE, and salaries are on average about $10,000 higher per year than individuals without a high school diploma or HSE.
Congratulations to all the graduates!
For more information from NYSED about the HSE process, visit this link.
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