Timothy and Paula Bell from Russellville share a wonderful accomplishment in their lives. Timothy and Paula both earned their GEDs this year: Timothy in October and Paula in November.
When asked what inspired them to work on their GEDs and come to the Logan County Adult Learning Center, they both stated that they knew they needed to finish their education, wanted a better future for their family, and it was just time to get this done! They came to the Learning Center from a desire to improve their lives. They continued to come because they felt support from staff. Paula, who didn’t like writing essays, attributes her change in how she viewed this task due to the support, encouragement and help she received from the Logan County instructors. Timothy stated that his experience was that the instructors encouraged him to ask questions, and listened to him. He appreciated being treated with respect and as an adult.
Timothy and Paula also expressed many thanks to the GED examiner, Margaret Van Zee, for her support as they worked through the test. Once they received their scores, Timothy said, “I just feel better; I have accomplished something I have wanted and needed for a long time. Now nothing can stop me!” Paula proudly said, “I tried to do this before and now I know I can do more. My next step is the NCRC (National Career Readiness Certificate) program. College may be down the road, but for now, I want to continue to take care of my family and be a support for Timothy as he starts college.”
Timothy is pursuing plans to start classes at Mid-Continent University this spring. He is a church elder and has a desire to continue in ministry and someday earn his divinity degree. They both agree that earning a GED is just the first step. They have new doors opening for them to meet many goals in their life. Their most important goal is to be a positive role model for their adult children and their youngest son, Ross.
Without the GED, they felt limited in opportunities realized when one has an education. Both Timothy and Paula give all the success, praise and glory to God. Without him, none of this would be worth pursuing.
Their accomplishment also served as a powerful role model for other students. One student was ready to stop and maybe try the new GED Test in January. Timothy encouraged him to just try the GED test to see how he would do. What a victory this was when the student passed his GED in November! He told the staff that if he had not have talked to Timothy, he might not have had the courage to just try.
In the short time we have known Timothy and Paula; our program has seen how they are supportive of each other and other people as well. They are true examples of what can happen if you believe in yourself and never give up! We congratulate them on this victory and we look forward to seeing them in caps & gowns at this year’s GED graduation in June.