At the end of June, students, volunteers, staff, and community members gathered for the 2024 Adult Education End of Year Celebration to honor the achievements of 249 adult students. The English for College & Career Readiness Classes, are offered for 5 levels, from introduction to English to professional and technical English for career advancement. These free classes are supported by Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

During the celebration, students gave heartfelt speeches to express their gratitude to teachers, volunteers, and staff.

Roubens, a Level 3 student, encouraged his classmates: “We may not speak perfectly yet, but we are improving. Everyone has different experiences, but with determination, we made it!”​

Shiyan, a Level 4 student from China, found a community at BCNC after she moved to Quincy with her family at the age of 18. Shiyan shared: “After a year at BCNC, I have improved my English a lot and feel much more confident in daily conversations, which is significant progress for me. The classes on American history and culture also helped me adapt to life in the US. Additionally, classmates from different countries speaking in class taught me about the diversity of the culture in the world.”

Ben Hires, BCNC’s CEO, offered words of encouragement: “I hope you have gained confidence that your hard work will lead to success as you pursue your path to happiness. The journey may not always be smooth, but with the support of others and your own perseverance, progress is always achievable.”

Tim Cahill, President of the Quincy Chamber of Commerce and member of BCNC’s Quincy Leadership Council also made an appearance to personally congratulate the students.

Special thanks to all who make BCNC Adult Education & Workforce Initiatives successful: BCNC staff and volunteers, Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, AmeriCorps, English for New Bostonians, Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition, Massachusetts Gaming Commission, City of Boston Office of Workforce Development, National Grid Foundation, Bank of America Charitable Foundation, State Street Foundation, and Comcast Foundation.