One of the more severely handicapped students, MICHELLE SANDERS, is in a wheelchair and she speaks out on how this class helps her to prepare for the job market: "Most of all the offices in the community have computers. In the computer training class, we have learned the newer versions of software such as WordPerfect 7.0. I have learned to type letters, to prepare faxes, and to do newsletters. Learning these types of programs will help us to get jobs."
One of the newer students, AMELIA JACK says: "I have learned new computer skills which will benefit me in the job market. Also, my typing skills have improved. I am looking forward to learning more..." Another new student, CHRISTINA ALBERT agrees with her peer in saying: "I have learned different things like Windows 95 and Microsoft Word."
Two of the top students, RALPH HALL and VERA ASHWORTH, have both made phenomenal strides in the class. RALPH HALL states: "Every single day is something that can affect and change one's life forever. I have been taught very important lessons that have changed my ways of thinking. The one thing that has changed my life completely is the idea of never quitting. So I must go on to follow my dreams and keep on practicing and practicing, like I did in this class. Goodwill encourages and helps those who are handicapped. It is very difficult for handicapped people to find jobs. For instance, I am hearing impaired and many times when I hand in applications, I knew it would be rejected by the way they look at my ears and turn away from my face. So Goodwill has changed my life by supporting me with great help..." VERA ASHWORTH sums it all up by saying: "Does learning computer skills have an impact on a person? YES! Being computer litrate is the way of the future. Computer skills on the job are a must and aid in your advancement or being hired for a job. Having the knowledge and ability to use computers has given me the confidence to seek employment in the field of my choice. Knowledge builds your self-esteem. Computers have a postive impact on everyone, young and old.
Knowledge is power! That's a philosophy I live by. The more you can learn, the more effectively you can impact your life. I belive in my students. I believe each student has the capability to be successful and it's up to me, as the instructor, to pull out every ounce of talent. America looms in the danger zone of ignorance. This organization cares about people. If I can ever instill anything in my students, I want it to be a desire, a determination, a passion to defy the odds, and to be successful. Of course I want
them to learn the software I teach, but more importantly than learning software is learning to never give up!
Students have their say about the instructor: MICHELLE SANDERS says "he's the best instructor I have had",
VERA ASHWORTH says "Lavelle has the ability to teach a variety of students",
CHRISTINA ALBERT says "He makes me feel at home." New student, AMELIA JACK states: "Mr. Lavelle greets you each morning with a smile. He enjoys teaching about computers. He helps when you don't understand and makes you feel welcomed."
RICKY WALLACE mentions that "He has a lot of patience with the students" and SHARON HANNAH says "He's a nice guy and when someone has a problem he tries to help."
RALPH HALL says "He makes me laugh, and is a mighty great philosopher."
My Favorite Links
The History Of Goodwill
A Great Goodwill Site For Facts And Answers