Rising Above Adversity: The Journey of Warlyn Acao as an ALS SHS Student and Parent

Education has always been a force for transformation, and Warlyn Acao’s journey as an Alternative Learning System (ALS) Senior High School (SHS) student is a testament to that truth. As a mother of two, she made the courageous decision to return to school after years of dedicating herself to her family’s needs. Her path, however, has never been easy.

Warlyn grew up in the mountains, where life revolved around the land. She spent her days planting root crops and vegetables, relying on farming to support her family. Every morning, she would wake up before sunrise to tend to their small plot of land, carefully nurturing sweet potatoes, cassava, bananas, and leafy greens. The produce she harvested was her lifeline—she would carry heavy baskets down the rugged trails to sell them at the local school and in the nearby village. Teachers became some of her most loyal customers, purchasing fresh vegetables from her to feed their families. Despite the backbreaking labor, she remained grateful for the opportunity to provide for her children, even if it meant working tirelessly under the scorching sun and heavy rains.

Despite the hardships, Warlyn yearned for something more—a chance to break free from the cycle of poverty and secure a better future for her children. That desire led her to enroll in the Electrical Installation and Maintenance (EIM) program under ALS SHS. She saw it as an opportunity to gain a stable career and acquire skills that would allow her to stand on her own.

However, balancing academics and her responsibilities as a mother and provider proved to be an immense challenge. There were days when exhaustion threatened to consume her, as she had to divide her time between attending training sessions, completing coursework, selling vegetables, and ensuring her children’s well-being. Financial struggles added another layer of difficulty, making it hard to afford educational materials and other necessities. Yet, through sheer determination, she pressed on. She learned to manage her time efficiently, seeking support from family members and making the most of hands-on learning experiences to sharpen her skills.

Her dedication did not go unnoticed. As she progressed through the EIM program, Warlyn developed proficiency in electrical installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. She took great pride in her ability to grasp technical concepts and apply them effectively, gaining recognition from her instructors for her hard work and eagerness to learn.

Her journey in ALS SHS reinforced her belief that education is a lifelong endeavor, not limited by age or circumstances. She developed a deep appreciation for accessible education, recognizing how it provides hope for individuals striving to improve their lives despite the odds.

More than just a personal achievement, Warlyn’s story is an inspiration—not only to her children but also to others facing similar challenges. She believes that with determination, perseverance, and access to opportunities, anyone can rise above hardships and work toward a brighter future. Her journey serves as a call to action for educators and stakeholders to strengthen support systems for students juggling multiple responsibilities, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of education and a better life.