Tyeeshia Cannady embodies fearlessness and resilience. A mother of six, she faces the daily challenges of managing a crowded household and working night shifts, all while trying to pursue her education.
Becoming a mother at age 15, Tyeeshia faced the harsh reality of juggling motherhood at a young age. Earning a living to support her child became more important than earning her diploma, and sadly she had to drop out of high school. As her family expanded with five more children, she realized she needed a better support system. Tyeeshia needed an education that would enable her to get a better-paying job to care for her growing family.
Despite the countless hurdles hindering her from moving forward, Tyeeshia was determined to complete her education. The Baltimore Excel Center emerged as the perfect opportunity for her to pursue the diploma she still yearned to achieve.
“I want to have that self-accomplishment myself. I want to say I completed it, I did it, and I want to have a better job,” she said. “I love my job, but I don’t want to leave this earth and [have people say], ‘Oh, she just had children. She didn’t finish school. She just had children.’”
Listen to Tyeeshia talk about her experience on ABC’s Nightline.
Tyeeshia said the Excel Center’s daycare for her young children is a game changer. It eliminates the financial burden of childcare expenses and the concerns that come with leaving her children with strangers, enabling her to fulfill her educational dreams.
For Tyeeshia, being able to reach the milestone of her high school graduation will be more than just a ceremony, it will finally make her dreams come true. Receiving a high school diploma will enable her to advance her career and life goals.
Tyeeshia’s story is just one example of the profound impact the Baltimore Excel Center is having on its students. The Excel Center provides an opportunity for many mothers like her to rewrite their stories, giving them a second chance at an education.
Excited about the future she deserves, Tyeeshia is filled with gratitude and determination as she looks ahead to the growth and opportunities in store for her through the Baltimore Excel Center, where so many dreams and aspirations are being achieved.
Learn more about the Baltimore Excel Center.
