GED Your Way: Students on the Move at Literacy NRV

At Literacy NRV, we believe there’s no one right path to success - and that’s why our “GED Your Way” program is designed to meet students where they are, whether that means one-on-one tutoring, study groups, online study, flexible scheduling, individualization of curriculum, or independent study with case management support Under the leadership of Program Coordinator Linda Jilk, this program has been steadily growing and the stories of our students (and volunteers!) inspire us every single day.

Here are just a few recent highlights:

Dedication Across the Miles: Mayuen & MaKayla

Our volunteers are the heart of our program, and MaKayla is a shining example. She began working with Mayuen in December 2024, and when she moved away for graduate school at Northwestern, she didn’t let distance get in the way. Twice a week, the two continue to meet over Zoom. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to watch him grow, not only in his skills, but also in his understanding of how his mind works and how he learns,” MaKayla shared.

Inspired by Fatherhood: André

André is determined to earn his GED before his son graduates from high school. As he prepares for the Social Studies test, André reminds us that education is not only about personal achievement — it’s also about being a role model for the next generation.

Juggling Responsibilities: Brooke

Brooke recently passed her first GED test — all while managing a job and raising her one-year-old! Her persistence is proof that determination pays off, and we can’t wait to cheer her on as she takes the remaining 3 subject tests!

Laying the Foundation for a Stronger Future

Lesley (not pictured) joined us as a GED student in the summer of 2024. From the beginning, he was balancing heavy lifting on the job site with the mental load of study - often being called out of town for construction projects and working long shifts that made it tough to stay on schedule. But Lesley never let the obstacles knock down his progress. He’s been steadily building toward his goal, one test at a time. He’s already passed two of the subject exams, and even after a major work deployment to North Carolina - where he helped rebuild communities after Hurricane Helene - Lesley kept hammering away at his studies. This month, he passed the practice test for his third subject, showing once again that his determination is rock-solid. Lesley’s commitment to constructing a better future continues to inspire us all!

Mohamed, Kim, and Heather celebrate GED success!

Milestones and Successes: Mohamed & Kim

Two of our students are already halfway toward their GED goals:

• Mohamed has passed two of the four GED subject tests, an especially impressive feat since English is not his first language.

• Kim recently passed the Science test, bringing her to the halfway mark as well. The smile on her face says it all: hard work pays off!

• Heather, who achieved her GED goal earlier this year, has been able to continue her studies and is now a certified phlebotomist technician. She just secured a full-time position! 

These are just a few of the stories we’re celebrating this season. Each student’s journey is unique, but they all share a common thread: persistence, courage, and a belief in their own potential.

If you’ve ever thought about earning your GED - or know someone who might benefit - now is the time. Our program is free, flexible, and designed to help you succeed YOUR way.

Learn more about our GED Your Way program: https://www.literacynrv.org/programs