Diamond Stockfields was hit with family problems as a teen and decided that graduating from Valley High School wasn’t the path for her.

Instead, she earned her GED through Equus and PA CareerLink Alle-Kiski. Now working as an EMT, she hopes to attend college in the spring.

“I don’t think I would’ve accomplished any of this without this program,” Stockfields told a crowded room at CareerLink’s New Kensington classroom.

“Anyone thinking about getting their GED should know you get the support you need here.”

Stockfields was among graduates who were celebrated Friday; they are among 107 people who have achieved their GED through the program since it started in 2017.

Past and current students were invited to Friday’s event.

The GED is an alternative to receiving a high school diploma.

“I’m lucky enough to have been around these guys every day, and it’s been one of my greatest joys,” program manager Don Acker said.

When he took over the program in July 2017, he promised his students that “when we got to 100 students, we would celebrate.

“Here were are.”

Site administrator Rick O’Domes credited Acker for being tenacious in his support of every student.

“He’s literally tracked kids down on the street or trolled them on Facebook,” O’Domes said. “Whatever it takes to get them in here.”

Equus assists people ages 16-24 in earning their GED at CareerLink’s Fifth Avenue location. It primarily serves students in the Burrell, New Kensington-Arnold and Kiski Area school districts.

At 24, Jausye Dixon is among the oldest graduates of the program.

“I didn’t think school was for me, but I learned from failing,” said Dixon, who intends to enroll in veterinary tech school next year.

“I have two daughters, and I’m trying to learn and do what I need to do to take care of them.”

State Sen. Joseph Pittman was on hand to congratulate the students.

“A dream deferred is not a dream denied,” he said. “You have achieved a dream, and you all have a new opportunity in front of you. You should be proud.”

Graduate Kaylee Uhler, from the New Kensington-Arnold School District, said the GED program is a good place to start a new chapter.

After faltering as a teen, Uhler is studying criminal justice and hopes to work as a youth victim advocate.

“We all quit school, and we own up to that,” she said. “Some people have obstacles that take you different ways. But this program brings out the best in you.

“A lot of us are smarter than we think.”

Acker sent off his students with a final message to keep persevering.

“Your future will have ups and downs,” he said, “but give your best effort most of the time and always remember your success on this day.”

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