Four people donned caps and gowns and participated in a GED graduation ceremony at West Irvine Elementary on Friday evening.
“You are second to none,” Adult Education Director Mary Skipper reminded the graduates.
Randall Christopher, retired interim superintendent of Estill County Schools, said, “You’ve worked to get to this place…, and you’ve only just begun.”
Christopher emphasized three main points in his remarks. He encouraged graduates to “be a teacher to others,… to help others make good choices,… and to share knowledge.”
“Be that productive person,” he said. “Be responsible, be accountable.” He spoke of the need for such qualities in families, especially among husbands, fathers and wives.
“Don’t let the negative take you down,” he said. “Those who are envious, or jealous will try. Run away from that; don’t let those people tear you down.”
Before the graduates received their diplomas, Skipper said, “What are you going to do next? With success, comes a responsibility.”
“We’re so proud of you,” she added.
Skipper also praised her dedicated staff at the Adult Education Center. She recognized Charlene Haggard, who is retiring as an instructor at the center. Haggard also taught high school classes for many years and retires with 30 years invested in teaching.
Skipper spoke of Haggard’s kindness, her caring nature, and her willingness to teach any subject.
All four of this year’s GED graduates are employed or have plans to further their education.
Courtney McKenzie works as a baker at Panera Bread, and Jacob Stinnett is employed as grill master at Red Lobster.
Tiffany Billingsley is pursuing an online associates degree in science and health from Colorado Tech University, and Brandon Witt plans to learn industrial maintenance from Bluegrass Community and Technical College.