Single mom overcomes setbacks to get an education and inspire her daughter
Katerria Guichard, a self-described former wild child, failed to graduate from high school with her classmates in 2008. She was just getting by on welfare when her daughter was born. Guichard knew she must return to school for her child — she didn’t want to set a bad example for her daughter to follow.
“I didn’t want her to look at me one day and say, ‘Well, you didn’t graduate,’” Guichard says.
Guichard began taking basic education classes at Elk Grove Adult & Community Education. Basic skills classes are an important entry point for adults who have no high school diploma and are not yet academically ready for high-school level study. Basic skills classes at adult schools are sometimes the only open door available to adults like Guichard who’ve experienced a history of academic setbacks.
When given a second chance, Guichard never gave up. Despite a number of challenges, including being a single parent, deaths in the family and occasional homelessness, she persisted to achieve her goal.
“They pour blood, sweat and tears into their students, and help you when you can’t help yourself.”
Katerria Guichard, Adult Education Student
“She had so many personal struggles, but she stayed dedicated,” says Gina Wandell, a teacher for the Elk Grove adult program. “Even when she couldn’t make it to class she would study at home.”
Guichard struggled to keep up in class and pass tests until Wandell helped her discover that she had a learning disability. Once these additional challenges were addressed, Guichard began to succeed.
“She was so happy when she started passing tests,” Wandell says. “She just wanted it so badly that she never gave up.”
Eventually, Guichard’s skills improved and she was ready to take the High School Equivalency class.
“I had doubts when I started, but Elk Grove is so loyal to their students,” says Guichard. “They pour blood, sweat and tears into their students, and help you when you can’t help yourself.”
With years of hard work and persistence, Guichard has achieved her dream. She will walk across the stage with her class in June 2016 to receive her high school diploma.
Guichard believes graduating will be the most beautiful moment of her life, a triumph for both her and her daughter, who’s excited to one day wear a cap and gown of her own.
“My daughter will definitely be at my graduation,” Guichard says. “I know I will remember this experience in my old age.”
She has already begun meeting with a training center coach to find a full-time job so she can support her daughter. Her long-term goal is to attend college and become a registered nurse.
“I know I am just getting started and this isn’t the end,” she says. “Just remember, it’s never too late to go to school.
For more information, visit www.capitaladulted.org.
Written by Amanda Caraway
| Regions | Classes |
|---|---|
| Northern California | High School |
