Coastal Pines Technical College’s (CPTC) Adult Education Program proudly held its’ first Commencement Ceremony on July 21, 2023, at the Ware County Sheriff’s Office. In early March, Katrena Felder, Executive Director of CPTC’s Adult Education Program and Sheriff Carl James of the Ware County Sheriff’s Office developed a partnership that has created a positive impact between adult education services and the jail population. CPTC’s Adult Education Program offered the first-of-its-kind opportunity for individuals to earn a High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma while incarcerated at the Ware County Jail.
Christian Noah was the first student in the program to graduate with his High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma while incarcerated at the Ware County Jail. “This is the greatest accomplishment of my life. I was 14 years old in the 9th grade when I dropped out of school.”, states Christian. Christian’s family members attended the graduation and were delighted to celebrate his accomplishment. Christian’s HSE achievement is a confirmation that it is never too late to achieve your dreams.
Mr. Eric Mathis, Adult Education Instructor at the Ware County Jail spends time providing instruction in math and science along with reading/language arts, social studies, and writing to aid incarcerated students in preparing to take the HSE exam. Equipping incarcerated adults with the skills necessary to further their education greatly reduce their likelihood of returning to jail and in turn become more employable in the community. “This is a significant day for CPTC and the Ware County Sheriff’s Office. When you think of an incarcerated student’s age, their history of incarceration, and their situation; achieving an HSE diploma deserves to be celebrated. These are some of the best students and the workforce needs them! I am honored to champion this program in my hometown.”, stated Ms. Felder.
Coastal Pines Technical College’s (CPTC) Adult Education Program takes “Stingray” pride in affording equal access to educational services for everyone no matter their level of education or experiences. Georgia opportunities start right here at Coastal Pines Technical College. To enroll or learn more about CPTC’s Adult Education Program, call 912-287-6580 today.
Sheriff Carl James, Christian Noah, and Captain Ralph Pittman