The 2024 Literacy Texas Annual Awards celebrated just some of the amazing adult students in Texas literacy programs.
2024 Student Achievement - ABE/HSE
Jacqueline Turrubiartes | Ysleta Community Learning Center
“After years of challenging circumstances, including incarceration and time in a behavioral center, Jacqueline realized that education could be the key to transforming her life. While incarcerated, she began her journey towards earning a GED, dedicating her time to studying and passing two of the required exams. It was a small but significant step towards a brighter future.
Upon her release, her path was not straightforward; she found herself in a behavioral center where many might have given up hope. However, Jacqueline continued her studies through the Ysleta Community Learning Center and passed the remaining two GED exams. With her GED in hand, she felt a sense of accomplishment that had previously eluded her.
Now, equipped with the confidence that comes from achieving a significant educational milestone, she enrolled in an Integrated Education Training class to earn certifications in Microsoft Excel and Freight Dispatching. This new phase of her learning journey has opened doors to employment opportunities she never thought possible.
Jacqueline’s literacy learning has not only given her a sense of achievement, it has also paved the way for meaningful employment and stability. She can now support herself, contribute to her community, and inspire others with her story of resilience and determination. What started as a necessity has blossomed into a new beginning, proving that with education, even the most difficult paths can lead to success.”
2024 Student Achievement - ESOL
Maria Magdalena Gwartney | Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas
“Malena embarked on her English literacy journey in 2011 upon relocating to the US from Torreon, Mexico. Despite initial challenges, including balancing single motherhood and full-time employment, she pursued English language education. Using resources like Duolingo, Malena diligently practiced daily, laying the foundation for her linguistic growth. Recognizing the limitations of self-study, she sought structured education, joining the Community Action program in 2019.
Since then, Malena’s dedication has been unwavering. Over the past five years, she has continuously elevated her proficiency, progressing through intermediate and advanced ESL classes, as well as specialized courses like ESL for Entrepreneurs and English for Professionals. Impressively, she juggled both morning and evening classes for several years, demonstrating her commitment and determination .
Beyond academic achievements, Malena’s resilience shines through adversity. When her husband’s job loss threatened their stability, she pivoted, venturing into entrepreneurship by establishing an embroidery/printing business. With great tenacity and adaptability, she and her husband navigated the complexities of a new industry, successfully sustaining their venture to this day.
As if her accomplishments weren’t remarkable enough, Malena achieved US citizenship in 2022, adding another milestone to her impressive journey.
Malena’s story is not just one of personal triumph but a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and familial motivation. Her aspiration to serve as a role model for her daughters underscores her character of lifelong learning and self-improvement. In every endeavor, she embodies resilience, resourcefulness, and a steadfast devotion to her family’s well-being.”
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Page updated 1/16/25
