by Travis Griggs, Pensacola News Journal
“There is a lot of focus on dropout prevention, but there’s not a lot of focus on dropout re-engagement,” Liebman said. “Our vision and mission are about re-engaging the adult learner back into the educational system and preparing them for the world of work.” The program launched its first class of 75 to 100 students April 26. Sammie Avis, 57, of Lawtey, is a member of the pilot class. Avis said she got married at 17 years old, and quit high school shortly thereafter without earning her diploma. “Several times I went to go back and get a GED or something, and it just didn’t work out,” Avis said. Now that her children are grown, Avis said she she’s trying again to earn her high school diploma. She works in childcare and is worried that future rule changes may require that childcare workers have a high school diploma. She said because she needs to be home in the evenings to take care of her 76-year-old mother, online courses are a perfect fit. “This way I can be at home with her … and still take care of her and do the classes also,” Avis said.
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