The Morden Adult Education Center is hosting an open house on Thursday, October 17th, offering community members a chance to explore educational opportunities tailored for adults. The event will take place from 6 to 8 PM at the center, which is located in Morden, at 200-30 Stephen Street where the old hospital and clinic used to stand.
Helping adults earn mature diplomas and upgrade skills
Helena Lantigua, a full-time teacher at the center, shared that the Morden Adult Education Center provides a pathway for adults to achieve their mature student diplomas. “It’s a step up from a GED,” said Lantigua, explaining that this diploma enables students to apply to post-secondary institutions.
The center also supports students looking to upgrade their grades to meet admission requirements for specific career paths or programs. Lantigua emphasized how the program helps a range of individuals, saying, "We have a lot of students that come to us who graduated years ago but need one credit to advance their career."
Courses available and flexible learning options
Lantigua, who teaches English, law, family studies, psychology, and global issues, highlighted the diversity of subjects offered. She noted, "We are quite accommodating to what each adult needs," as the center provides both in-class sessions and an independent learning stream for those with varying schedules.
There are currently two full-time teaching staff members, with Todd Folkett serving as the teaching principal and handling math and science courses.
Affordable education and childcare support
One key advantage of the Morden Adult Education Center is its affordability. Lantigua explained that the program’s student fee is just $20 per year, and childcare services are available on-site for only $35 per semester. This, along with support from the Western School Division, makes it easier for parents, including both moms and dads, to further their education while keeping their children nearby.
Welcoming the community to the open house
Thursday's open house aims to provide a relaxed, welcoming environment for visitors to learn more about the center’s offerings. “We just want people to come through the doors, see the facility, and meet us,” Lantigua said. There will be coffee, tea, and fresh-baked cookies available, creating an inviting atmosphere for anyone interested in continuing their education.
Lantigua encourages anyone with questions to stop by, saying, "It's not too late to register for in-class sessions, and we accept students year-round." The open house is designed to ease any apprehensions adults may have about returning to school, ensuring that education is within reach for everyone in the Pembina Valley.