College of Western Idaho (CWI) joined the State of Idaho and Gov. Little in recognizing and celebrating a remarkable achievement as both a student and teacher from the College’s Adult Education program were honored during Adult Education and Family Literacy Week (AEFL). Governor Little officially proclaimed Sept. 14 – 20 as AEFL Week in Idaho, highlighting the crucial role adult education plays in creating opportunities for learners and their families.
At a special recognition ceremony hosted by the Idaho Division of Career Technical Education, CWI student, Alexandria Horner, was named Idaho Adult Education Student of the Year, and Adult Education teacher, Tami Porter was named Idaho Adult Education Teacher of the Year.
Horner, who is working toward her GED at CWI, overcame significant challenges, especially transportation barriers. With support from CWI, including access to a bus pass, Horner has persevered, devoting more than 387 hours of study to prepare for the GED test.
Her long-term goal is to study nutrition at CWI and work toward her associate degree. “It was a great honor to be here and receive this award,” Horner said. “My biggest hurdle in my education has been transportation. I don’t have family or friends that can take me to class. On top of that, my mom is extremely sick, so it makes it difficult to get to class. CWI has been phenomenal helping me with the obstacles I was facing and giving me the support I need. To other students, I would say go for it, don’t let anything get in your way. Keep moving forward no matter how hard the road gets.”
In Idaho, more than 110,000 working-age adults do not have a high school diploma. Horner’s dedication and resilience serve as an inspiration to others considering adult education as a pathway to future success.
Porter, who has taught at CWI for 13 years, teaches English Language Acquisition, English Language classes, and GED pathway programs. Two years ago, she took on the additional role of reading instructor, working with both native and non-native English speakers. She completed the rigorous federal Student Achievement in Reading training program, which has led to significant student gains in reading achievement.
Beyond her classroom accomplishments, Porter plays a vital role at the CWI Community Learning Center, mentoring new teachers and volunteering for additional program support projects. “Working with Adult Ed learners at CWI is very rewarding,” Porter shared. “A lot of time education is one size fits all and those who fit can graduate. There are plenty that don’t fit in that box, and they can come to our program. Receiving this award is still a little bit of a shock, but I’m honored that my hard work is getting appreciated.”
CWI proudly congratulates Horner and Porter for their achievements and celebrates the impact they, and all of CWI’s adult learners and educators, make in transforming lives and strengthening communities across Idaho.
