ROCKPORT —  Tears, smiles, and pride accompanied the first-ever CNA graduation at Five Town CSD Adult and Community Education on September 19, according to Five Towns, in a news release.

Nine students graduated through a partnership with Harbor Hill, in Belfast, Windward Gardens, in Camden, and Genesis Healthcare. The participants joined the class coming from various occupations. Three students were also working on their high school equivalency diploma (HiSET), with one student receiving both their HiSET diploma and CNA certificate by the time the class was over.

It was obvious the group of students bonded through the program and supported each other in their learning, said Five Towns. The diverse group included a wide range of ages, those with full-time jobs or no job at all, those with young children, and other barriers to overcome.

Support for the students came from Five Town CSD Adult and Community Education, Fedcap, Workforce Solutions, and the Knox County Homeless Coalition to help them be successful in class and reach their goal of becoming a CNA. Genesis Healthcare provided the occupational and clinical instruction free of charge and has hired all of the graduates.

Maine’s state goal through the Main Spark Initiative is to have 60% of all Mainers holding a credential of value by 2025. Maine Adult Education is expanding workforce opportunities through its affordable classes to help the state reach this goal.

A new CNA class will begin on October 7 at Five Town CSD Adult and Community Education; the course is free for qualified students.