Amanda Moore, right, received her high school equivalency diploma from Adult Education Instructor Tanner Hunter Thursday night during Wood County Adult Education’s annual graduation event held at West Virginia University at Parkersburg. (Photo by Douglass Huxley)

PARKERSBURG — Wood County Adult Education held its annual graduation event Thursday night at West Virginia University at Parkersburg where 21 adults walked the stage to receive their high school equivalency diploma.

“Every story is special,” Wood County Adult Learning Center Instructor Deanna Addis said. “These graduates have overcome significant barriers and put in tremendous work to achieve their goals.”

One of the graduates who overcame the obstacles in their life to achieve their goal was Amanda Moore.

“At 14, I was a drug addict. I’ve got three years sober now,” Moore said. “If somebody would have told me five years ago that I would be where I am today, I’d be like, ‘You’re crazy,’ but look, God shows up and shows off.”

She said her motivation for change came from her children.

Twenty-one adults walked across the stage at West Virginia University at Parkersburg on Thursday night to receive their high school equivalency diploma during Wood County Adult Education’s annual graduation event. (Photo by Douglass Huxley)

“My children deserve a sober mother,” she said. “I saw that I had hurt them, and it was time to step up and be the example.”

Another graduate who overcame addiction to achieve their goals was Alisa Pisula.

“God has done a lot. I was in addiction for 20 years,” Pisula said. “Never thought this day would come, but I’ve been sober for almost seven years.”

Piscula also said her children were a driving force for a better life. She said it was a struggle sometimes to balance single motherhood, a full-time job and her education.

“It was hard being a single mom, working a full-time job, but it was worth it,” she said. “I don’t regret my journey, and I’m thankful for this evening and for what’s to come.”

Graduates celebrate with family and friends at West Virginia University at Parkersburg on Thursday after receiving their high school equivalency diploma during Wood County Adult Education’s annual graduation event. (Photo by Douglass Huxley)

Moore said the adult education program played a crucial role in her success, providing flexible scheduling and comprehensive support.

“They went above and beyond for me,” Moore said. “I stayed on afternoon shifts so I could go to school through the mornings, and they were really nice when I couldn’t make it to class.”

She said financial constraints could have been a barrier, but the free program offered by Wood County Adult Education made her educational pursuit possible.

“As a single mom, money is tight everywhere,” she said. “Retaking tests would have cost around $90, so this was a tremendous help.”

Both women said this has opened up more opportunities for them to grow and achieve their dreams.

“I actually want to try to help people who want to come out of addiction also and show them Jesus,” Pisula said,

Moore said with this milestone she sees endless possibilities for her future.

“This has opened up so many doors for me,” Moore said. “Whether that be college or opening my own business.”

Addis said the Adult Education program offers a comprehensive range of free educational opportunities, including GED preparation, industry-recognized certifications in Microsoft Office, customer service and basic computer skills. She said the program is open to all adults who are no longer in high school, with no income restrictions. She said the program’s duration is flexible, tailored to each student’s individual skill level and personal goals.

“Obtaining a high school diploma opens up more employment opportunities,”Addis said. “Graduates can now enter post-secondary training and work towards sustainable employment.” Interested individuals can obtain more information about the programs offered by Wood County Adult Education by visiting their location on the sixth floor of St. Joseph’s Landings, or by calling 304-834-1019.

Douglass Huxley can be reached at dhuxley@newsandsentinel.com