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“’The journey isn’t always a quick one but it’s definitely one worth taking!’ is a quote I often share with the students enrolled in the Holmes Community College Adult Education Program at the Yazoo Teen Center,” said Adult Education Lead Instructor Daphne M. Higgins.
Twin sisters Neshika and Shenika Catching of Yazoo City began the Adult Education program a couple of years ago. Their desire to earn their high school diplomas has been delayed because of literacy issues with reading. Since joining the program, however, both of their reading scores have improved drastically, adding to their overall comprehensive skills.
“These are two of the most determined women I know,” Higgins said. “When they began the program, they would walk an hour each direction to attend class. The weather, although a factor, was never a deterrent. Their attendance record was one of the best of their peers – heat, rainstorm or sleet. They were always on time and always stayed the duration of the class. When it became apparent of the distance they walked, communication with one of our partners soon followed.”
Holmes was able to help the sisters get a ride to class, making sure nothing interrupted their learning.
“I really like my GED class,” Neshika said. “I have learned a lot and every day is exciting. Our teacher always talks to us like she really cares and works with us to make sure we understand. My sister and I used to walk to school every day and now we have a ride that Holmes helped us get. We enjoy being a part of something that is helping us grow.”
Her sister mirrored her excitement and enjoyment in working toward earning a diploma.
“I enjoy going to school,” Shenika said. “Getting my high school diploma is a goal that feels closer than I ever thought it would and it’s all because there are people who believe in us and are helping us learn. We do our best to never miss a class and believe in giving it everything we’ve got to be successful. Having people who believe in us helps keep us excited.”
“I will never forget a phone call received about four years ago, requesting help for two young ladies attending the Holmes GED Program in Yazoo City,” said Anita Pigg with the Yazoo County Human Resources. “College and Career Navigator Chelia D. Woodfork-Thompson contacted our agency regarding two young ladies who had been walking to school each day, rain or shine. When I heard this, my first reaction was how inspiring, determined, dedicated and enduring for someone in our society of convenience today. My heart was so touched by the words Mrs. Thompson shared with me as my mind raced wondering how we can help!”
The Yazoo County Human Resource Agency provides a number of services, including transportation services for the elderly and disabled of the county. This enables them to maintain independence while still meeting their needs with mobility to doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping and social activities.
“I was excited to contact the GED program to let Ms. Higgins know that it would be an honor to transport the young ladies,” Pigg said. “We affectionately refer to them as the twins, and our journey with them started over three years ago. When you meet the young ladies, you quickly see how they are full of joy, have bubbly smiles and giggle a lot. I personally have enjoyed speaking with them and getting to know them, talking about the beautiful fall foliage, what their goals in life are and just encouraging them from time to time to keep striving for their goals. The twins have brought the opportunity for our agency to be able to give in our community so that two young ladies can reach their educational goals. We are grateful for this opportunity because they have blessed our agency and our seniors with the journey of furthering their education. Twins, we are cheering you on!”
The Yazoo Teen Center class meets Monday through Thursday, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. For more information regarding classes at the Yazoo Teen Center, located at 1222 Jackson St., Yazoo City, please contact Higgins, 662-746-9240 or 601-499-5235.
Holmes Community College offers Adult Basic Education classes in several locations in its district. These classes are open to the public for those who have not completed high school or would like to increase their functioning level to enter college, training or the job market. The Adult Education and GED Department encourages all adults that are interested to become involved in one of its programs.
For more information regarding other locations across the district, please call 662-290-0808.
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IN THIS PHOTO: Pictured are (left to right) Neshika Catching and Shenika Catching.
