At the recent graduation of GED and Adult High School students at Richmond Community College, members of the Scotland County Literacy Council staff sat in the audience with huge smiles on their faces, according to organization executive director Mark Gretch.

"That’s because four of the students earning their GEDs that night started the journey towards their goal of obtaining a GED in the classrooms of the literacy council," Gretch said. "Valerie Coleman, Amanda Hewitt, Angela Patterson, and Stephanie Reyes all walked in the doors of Scotland County Literacy Council with one specific goal: to earn their GED and go on to take college courses."

At SCLC, the four completed the coursework needed to begin testing, according to Gretch, and received extra help in the subjects that were holding them back from achieving that goal.

"Since earning her GED, Valerie has completed a course in phlebotomy, Stephanie has begun CNA courses at RCC, Angela has begun courses to become a Radiology Tech at Robeson Community college, and Amanda has begun courses in Early Childhood Education."

In addition to Gretch, the staff at SCLC includes April Perkins, administrative assistant, and Carolyn McNeil, lead teacher.

“We are all very proud of these ladies and of every student that comes through our doors with a goal, with the determination to reach that goal, and who go on to better themselves and the community," Perkins said.

The Scotland County Literacy Council provides one-on-one tutoring to adults in all subject areas. Office hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information on their services or to become a volunteer, call 276-7007.