National Adult Literacy Database

November 19, 2007

This week, we have a story written by Bella Collicutt, from Summerside, PEI.  Bella won the Co-operator's Learner Achievement Award at the PGI Golf Tournament for Literacy that was organized by the PEI Literacy Alliance.

Story

by Bella Collicutt

There are so many things that I could say as to why I didn't complete school. The long and short of it is I simply didn't realize I was going to need it.

My family were all fishermen so it seemed natural that I would also step into that role as well. So at the age of fifteen with a grade eight education I got my permit, went fishing and never looked back.

That is until I was much older; I became sick and could no longer do the only job I ever really knew. So I found myself a single mom of two, turning to social assistance for help. This hurt my pride but I knew I had no choice.

I started thinking of ways to make a better life for me and my children. Suddenly school came into mind. I met with the instructors and immediately felt I was valued again. These women are amazing and have guided me in many different ways. Their teaching abilities are more than I could have ever hoped for. I appreciate their patience and kindness. To this point I have written my GED and have passed three subjects.

I will continue to work as hard as I can until I achieve my GED certificate.

My future plans are to return to Holland College in the fall. I want to get an English credit so I can go on to train as a social worker or a child and youth care worker. I feel very grateful for the opportunity I have been given and I'm determined not to let anyone down. I have so many people behind me.

[This story was taken with permission, from Live & Learn, Spring & Summer 2007, published by the PEI Literacy Alliance.]