Spotlight on Success: Shaterreyia, WIOA Adult
Workforce Challenge
While working as a Certified Medication Aide at a local nursing facility earning more than minimum wage per hour, but not enough to find security, Shaterreyia was doing everything she could to support her family. As a single mother of two young children, she quickly realized that her income was not enough to meet her household’s needs without relying on public assistance for food. Determined to create a more stable future for her family, she knew she needed to advance her career into a position that would provide financial independence and long-term security.
Shaterreyia set her sights on becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). Understanding that additional education and training were required, she applied to the Tyler County School of Nursing Vocational Nursing Program. She was accepted into the program, but without financial assistance, attending was not financially possible.
For two consecutive years, although accepted into the program, she was placed on the WIOA waiting list due to limited funding and was unable to receive assistance. Despite these setbacks, Shaterreyia remained committed to her goal. She continued to reapply and stayed in contact with Workforce Solutions, refusing to give up on her dream.
On her third attempt, Shaterreyia was once again accepted into the nursing program at Tyler County Hospital. This time, she received the life-changing news she had been waiting for—she was approved for financial assistance through the WIOA program. When WIOA Case Manager Tesa Cook informed her of her eligibility, it marked the turning point in her journey.
With WIOA support, Shaterreyia was finally able to begin working toward her goal of becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse. Her perseverance, resilience, and determination to provide a better life for her children exemplify the impact Workforce programs can have in helping individuals overcome financial barriers and achieve long-term career success.
Workforce Solution
After a comprehensive assessment of Shaterreyia’s income, employment status, and existing skills, she was determined eligible for training assistance through the WIOA Adult Program. She successfully completed all required enrollment steps and was approved for an Individual Training Account (ITA) to apply toward the total cost of the Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) program at Tyler County Hospital. Her approved amount did not cover the entire balance, but a significant portion.
Despite her limited income, Shaterreyia demonstrated strong commitment and personal investment in her future by paying the remaining balance that WIOA funding did not cover. In addition to tuition assistance, she was also offered potential Supportive Services to help address barriers and ensure she could attend classes consistently and maintain satisfactory academic progress throughout the program.
With financial assistance and ongoing support in place, Shaterreyia moved one step closer to achieving her career goal and securing long-term financial stability for her family.
Result
Shaterreyia’s Individual Training Account (ITA) was approved for a designated amount, and she officially began the Vocational Nursing program on January 10, 2025. While excited to take this important step toward her career goals, she also understood the responsibility and commitment required to succeed. Her ultimate goal was not only to become a nurse, but to provide a stable and self-sufficient life for herself and her two children without relying on public assistance.
Throughout the program, Shaterreyia remained in full compliance with WIOA requirements by consistently submitting attendance documentation and maintaining passing grades. Balancing full-time employment with the demands of nursing school presented significant challenges. At times, the workload and responsibilities felt overwhelming; however, she remained focused on completion and utilized every available resource to stay on track.
Supportive Services played a critical role in her success, assisting with transportation costs so she could attend classes and complete required clinical assignments. This support helped remove barriers that might otherwise have prevented her from completing the program.
Shaterreyia successfully completed the Vocational Nursing program, sat for the NCLEX examination, and passed to obtain her licensure. She is now employed full-time as a Licensed Vocational Nurse at a local nursing facility, earning a substantial wage increase from her previous position.
As a result of her determination and the assistance provided through Workforce Solutions, Shaterreyia has achieved financial advancement, career growth, and increased stability for her family. She expressed deep gratitude for the support that helped transform her goals into reality.
Congratulations to you and your family, Shaterreyia!
Information provided by WIOA Case Manager, Tesa Cook
TOPICS: Success Stories
