OTAN invites nominations of California adult education learners who are successful as a result of the education received at adult education agencies for the California Adult Education Students Succeed program. The program honors outstanding students who are adults with significant life responsibilities, who have made positive contributions to the community, established and met life goals by attending an adult education program, improved the life situations of self and others, and overcome difficult circumstances in order to pursue adult learning experiences. The program recognizes the hard work that outstanding adult education students have completed in the pursuit of their personal, academic, and professional goals and aspirations.

You can read stories and watch videos from previous years by clicking on the Students tab. You can also explore stories from specific adult education agencies and programs by clicking on the Schools and Programs tabs. To learn how to nominate a student for the program and to submit an online nomination form, click on the Nomination tab.

Students Succeed Honoree: Mariell David

David

“She just got off the boat. Literally, she just got here from the Philippines, just off the boat, and we came here.” That statement by a student’s aunt was my first introduction to Mariell David. She was a tiny and timid 18 year old when she arrived at her San Juan Adult Education GED Orientation. After meeting her and noting her CASAS score, I asked the HSE director what the best path forward might be for Mariell. I mused that our stellar ESL program would gently support her adjustments to life here and also lead her through English basics to prepare her for GED study. My director said, “Let’s let her try GED. She may want the ESL or she may be fine in GED Prep. Wait and see.” I was cautious. I always want to see students succeed - a gain here, a success there - until the goal is reached. I don’t like to consider experiencing failure or set-backs. But I am learning that struggle has its beauty.

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