However, as we cheered on the many students who acquired
their GED in Pulaski County this year, my tremendous pride
was tinged with a trace of concern; not concern for these
graduates, for whom so many doors would now open, but for
students inspired by these accomplishments who will face even
more obstacles in pursuit of an invaluable education. Though
it was a joyous occasion, we couldn’t help but think about the
increase in cost and difficulty that will face potential GED
graduates in coming years.
Acquiring a GED has never been an easy task, and those who
decide to pursue their equivalency degree are often burdened
with restraints on time and resources that are less common in
those working towards a high school diploma. Still, the incredible
resilience and dedication of the students in our program has
taught me that a true desire to improve your education can
inspire amazing accomplishments. In 2014, as the state ceases
its GED subsidies, students who wish to better their lives with
higher education will face a testing fee in addition to the myriad
challenges that already lie in their path.