Meet Connecticut’s Adult Learners

Every adult learner has a story. Across Connecticut, learners from different backgrounds and life experiences are overcoming challenges, reaching important milestones, and creating new opportunities for themselves and their families. Their paths may be different, but they share the courage and determination to keep moving forward. During Adult Education & Family Literacy Week, CAACE is proud to share the voices of Connecticut’s adult learners and celebrate the achievements that show how adult education can change lives.

Christina M.| New Haven Adult Education

“One day, that will be me.”

There was a time when Christina wasn't sure graduation would ever be part of her story. School had been difficult, other paths hadn't worked out, and fear kept her from returning.

Then one day, Christina walked into New Haven Adult Education, looked at the photographs of graduates on the wall, and made herself a promise: “One day, that will be me.”

She stopped running from her future and started working toward it. She kept showing up—and today, Christina is one of those graduates.

Her story reminds us that success doesn't have an expiration date. What matters is moving forward.

Michele A.| Naugatuck Adult Education

“My future is brighter because I didn't quit.”


For Michele of Naugatuck Adult Education, earning her GED meant refusing to let one setback define the outcome.

After initially missing the math test by only a few questions, Michele returned, tried again and succeeded.

“My future is brighter because I didn't quit.”

Her story reminds us that persistence can change what comes next—and that adult education gives learners another chance to reach the goals they set for themselves.



NADINE M. | EASTCONN ADULT EDUCATION

“My age wasn't a liability—it was my superpower.”

Nadine returned to the classroom while balancing parenting, a household and the responsibilities of everyday life. After once walking away from her educational goal, she found the courage to try again—with encouragement from an adult education teacher who helped her recognize the strength she brought to the classroom.

Nadine earned her diploma, but she sees it as a beginning rather than an ending.

Her next step: college.




Lonnie L. | Wallingford Adult Education

“This diploma is proof that our history does not have to be our final destination.”

While working in healthcare, Lonnie devoted his days off to completing Wallingford Adult Education’s National External Diploma Program. Even when his demanding work schedule made it difficult, he found ways to keep moving forward—including once joining a school check-in from a quiet supply closet at the hospital.

His determination paid off. Lonnie earned his high school diploma and continued building his future in healthcare through Patient Care Technician training.

Lonnie’s story is a powerful reminder that where you start does not determine where you can go.