September 19, 2022
Story and photo by Joe Vinduska
Veronica Lara took her citizenship classes through Barton’s Center for Adult Education 11 years ago and through that process, she learned that they also provide courses for adults wanting to continue their education. Fast forward to 2022 and she has her high school diploma and a plan for the future.
“I was working as a teacher assistant at USD 428 and I really liked the job but I needed a full-time job with benefits,” she said. “I needed my high school diploma to qualify, so I got that this summer and now I have a full-time job with benefits working at USD 428 for the transportation department.”
Lara’s next steps are to take the CDL classes and driving test at Barton and become a bus driver for USD 428.
“This will allow me to make a better salary and I will still get to work with kids, which I enjoy,” she said.
While the future is bright for Lara, she said it was a challenge getting to where she is. She struggled with the language barrier. However, she didn’t let that stop her and said Barton was instrumental in getting her moving down the right path.
“I would like to thank this incredible institution for its excellent services,” she said. “The faculty and staff are the best. They do an excellent job and they always try to help. They are flexible, they have a clear understanding of what type of help each student needs and they are also very nice and dedicated to their work.”
Lara encourages others to utilize the Center for Adult Education to help them get started.
“Nothing is forever and it is never too late to start and move forward,” she said. “I would highly recommend this institution and staff as they will absolutely take care of every student and adapt to their needs. For anyone trying to get their diploma, you will not regret making this decision. This will open many doors for your future and create many more job opportunities. There is a better future ahead of you.”
Lara said she also wanted to give her family credit for always being there for her.
“I would also like to thank my family and friends,” she said. “I would not have been able to complete this without their assistance. I knew that when I had a question, I could rely on any of them to try and help.”
Barton’s next orientation sessions will be held from 1-4 p.m. from Nov. 14-17. The Center for Adult Education is located at 1025 Main Street in Great Bend. The first day of classes is Nov. 22. Students must complete orientation to attend classes.
To sign up, contact Support and Testing Specialist Gina Owen at oweng@bartonccc.edu or (620) 786-7565.