Mary, a lifelong resident of Middlebury, first came to Vermont Adult Learning in 2000 as part of a book discussion group to build her reading and writing skills. “High school was pretty good but I didn’t read well and got pushed around a lot,” Mary shared. But at VAL, things were different. Mary found belonging and support thanks to her caring instructors and has continued engaging in our services since. “Everybody here helps me a lot with things.”
VAL teacher Mary Worthington has worked closely with Mary over the past three years to improve her vocabulary and pronunciation, making reading, writing, and conversing more enjoyable.
“Mary is fearless about asking questions and is often the first to volunteer to read. She’s outspoken about things that truly matter to her. She’s already informed us that we have too much junk food in our office,” Mary Worthington shared. “She is compassionate in her concern for others and is seen out in the community helping others. She has a strong sense of rooting out injustice and promoting fairness.”
Being able to read better has helped Mary in her day-to-day life, including working at Middlebury Parks and Rec. “I do Tot Time and cleaning,” Mary beamed when speaking about her job. “I get out the toys and wait for the parents to bring the kids to play, and I keep an eye on things to make sure everything goes well.”
When not at work or VAL, Mary enjoys walking around town, visiting with friends, attending hockey games at Middlebury College, and exercising. She participated in the latest Maple Run, ran a marathon for the Special Olympics, and even won bronze, silver, and gold medals for swimming!
“Mary is an absolute rock star and is a model for adult learning,” Student Support Specialist Ashlee Monk shared. “She works hard every day, is always willing to help out her community, is an exceptional self-advocate, and will rise to any challenge!”
But Mary’s accomplishments don’t end there. “I’ve been helping out with people in the community. I try to teach them how to use the bus system and I’ve been helping someone fold her clothes,” she said of her volunteer work at a local group home. “It feels good to support others and give back to other people.”
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