The accomplishments of more than 30 people who participated in adult learning programs through HFM BOCES were recognized during a ceremony Tuesday, June 21.
Adult Education Coordinator Laurie Bargstedt addresses the adult graduates and family members.
Those recognized included adult learners who developed workforce skills, earned a high school equivalency diploma, developed English language skills or became U.S. citizens.
The HFM BOCES Adult Education program this year served almost 200 local adults, who are on the path to complete high school or earn other certifications.
This year more than 20 adults earned their high school equivalency diplomas, two earned advanced English language certificates, and three achieved citizenship. Four adults also earned their IC3 certification, which indicates to employers that candidates have essential computer and internet skills needed in the workplace.
Guest speakers at the ceremony included Kayla Hogabone, an HFM Adult Education graduate who now works for the program.
Adult Educator Geovanny Santamaria congratulates an adult student from Cuba who recently attained U.S. citizenship.
Hogabone graduated with her high school equivalency diploma four years ago and then became a program aide with Adult Education. She’s now an important part of the office team with the program. Her daughter is now graduating high school and is college bound.
Program Coordinator Laurie Bargstedt thanked all the community partners that help HFM adult learners become successful including Fulton-Montgomery Community College, the Gloversville and Amsterdam libraries, the Rob Constantine Recovery Room, the Legal Aid Society, local healthcare providers and other partners.
Bargstedt also thanked the families of the graduates.
“Thank you for the help with child care. Thank you for the meals. Thank you for the help with a ride.Thank you for the pep talks. We all need to know we have someone in our corner at that end of the day,” Bargstedt said.
