PHOTOS: Graduation For District 196 Adult Basic Education Students

There were 117 District 196 Adult Basic Education students that became graduates of the program this week, all honored at a ceremony Thursday at Grace Lutheran Church in Apple Valley. The program helps adults improve skills to advance in jobs or prepare for more schooling.

Eighteen graduates were present to receive their diplomas, to the support and applause of friends and family, and after a succession of speeches from those involved in the program.

ABE program manager Cathy Goering welcomed the assembly and introduced the graduates before a keynote speech from Director of Community Education Jim Brandl and a brief address from ABE lead teacher Laurie Elsen.

Elsen introduced two student speakers, Vicki Moen Bartone and Kayla Sarcone, who relayed their experiences and their thankfulness for the program.

The graduates then received their diplomas to cheers and a blaze of camera flashes before a reception, where graduates and guests enjoyed cake, punch and fellowship.