National Adult Literacy Database

November 08, 1999

This story comes to us from Morell, Prince Edward Island. The author, Estelle Squires, is a seasonal worker in the mussel industry in PEI. She quit school because it was not what she wanted. Much later, she saw that she need upgrading for herself and to help her son with his homework. In April of this year, Estelle successfully completed the GED exam and plans to continue working toward her learning goals in the fall.

What Returning to School Has Done for Me

by Estelle Squires

I returned to school on January 4, 1999. I have had a lot of positive changes since I came back. My son is in grade seven this year. At the first of the year, he wasn't doing very well. When I started back, and started to put a lot of hours and work in my books, he decided to do the same with his own. He has brought his marks up and is trying really hard to pass grade seven. We do our homework every evening together and he has helped me with my math. It makes him feel good that he is helping his Mom out.

My husband also has been very positive about my returning to school. He makes sure I get there every day. He also helps me with my math. If I'm having a bad day and think I will never get through it, he will tell me to slow down, be patient and it will get easier. (He is right) My family likes to see the end of the month come, so they can see my report card. I have a lot more self confidence in myself since returning to school.

By putting a lot of hard work in my subjects, with the help of three wonderful teachers and my family, I will get grade twelve.

[This story was taken with permission, from Live and Learn, published by the PEI Literacy Alliance, Summer 1999 edition.]