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STUDENT STORIES

Pam Talks About Attending The Provincial Conference

Jackie Talks About Attending The Provincial Conference

Andrew Talks About Attending The Provincial Conference

Julie Talks About Attending The Provincial Conference

Henry Talks About His Experience In Ottawa 

Jackie Talks About Her Experience In Ottawa 

Hi, my name is Taylor MacBean and this is my story.

When I was in school, I only completed grade 10. I had a hard time concentrating and was easily getting distracted. I dropped out because life kind of got in the way. I then started to attend the Adult Learning Centre because I wanted to get my grade 12 diploma. I was eager and determined. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to complete my courses for my grade 12 because I was in an accident. It took me a few years to get back on my feet and try again. This time I needed to do some upgrading first. In 2019, I was told that the Orillia and District Literacy Council was the best place to get some upgrading, so I decided to give them a call. Once I did, I got started right away. The staff was nice and very helpful; they even pushed me hard and encouraged me all the way. I had to learn my math all over again, from multiplication, division, percents, fractions and decimals. As for my reading and writing, I had some minor issues. The Council taught me how to do a book report, and a news report. They gave me the confidence that I needed to complete my goal path. They did ask if I wanted a tutor and before I knew it, I had an amazing tutor who helped me along the way. Her name was Robyn MacEachern. I worked with Robyn for a few months and I was ready for the next step. The Literacy Council made a referral to Quinte Adult Education, and that is where I did my online learning to achieve my goal of getting my grade 12 diploma. It took me a year to complete my grade 12, and when I got the news that I would be graduating, I decided to go in person and share my news with the council. When I arrived at the council and shared my news, they were so happy for me and congratulated me on my success. I asked them if they would like to attend my ceremony. January Fraser, who is the Program Coordinator, said that she would be honoured to attend. I graduated on June 22, 2023 in Belleville, Ontario with close friends and family and a member of the ODLC. I received my grade 12 diploma. I finally did it!!  After all, I couldn't have done it alone without the help of the amazing staff of ODLC. I would definitely recommend anyone who is looking for some upgrading or wanting to get help with their goal path, to go to the ODLC. Now I can’t wait to start a new chapter, a new beginning in my life, but I know this... if I ever need help, I know where to go.