This week the Illinois State Library spotlights: Lewis & Clark Community College in Godfrey.

One of the tutors at Lewis and Clark is referred to as “The Closer” because he helps students obtain their GED against all odds. His specialty is working with learners struggling with math.

The tutor recently scored another win for a young woman who dropped out of high school at 17. She had just learned she was pregnant when she enrolled in GED classes. The woman lived at home and her parents could not provide transportation, nor help her overcome her crippling lack of self-confidence. Despite these challenges, the woman made gains in reading, but she did not improve in math. She was losing ground until she was matched with “The Closer.”

Every week the tutor and student worked persistently on improving her math skills. Soon both her math proficiency and her confidence were up to the challenge of taking the GED test. She passed all components of the GED test and started making plans for the future. Once her child is born and she is able to secure financial aid, the woman wants to attend college. With her new found skills, she hopes to be able to take care of herself and her baby.