Meet LaTonia
Tennessee - Meet LaTonia
Workforce Success Story Submitted By: Northwest Tennessee Workforce Board
Workforce Challenge
LaTonia Hunt didn’t focus on school growing up, because she didn't think it mattered. She was living in rundown houses where food was scarce. LaTonia, as the oldest sibling, was responsible for cooking and cleaning for everyone, dealing with ants in the kitchen and animal mess everywhere. In addition to horrid living conditions, her mother married a man that abused LaTonia's little sister. When LaTonia told the police, she was physically and emotionally abused and was kicked out of the house.
Workforce Solution
LaTonia and her siblings were moved around alot, just trying to survive and not caring about school. Eventually, LaTonia started staying with her grandmother, which was a little more stable, but didn't provide her with any positive role models. During her sophomore year, LaTonia heard about the Dyersburg High School Peer Tutor Work Experience Program, a WIA grant program funded by the Northwest Tennessee Workforce Board. She was hired as a junior, & through the structure of the program, the adult mentoring and the job skills she was learning, LaTonia thrived. When her home life became unstable again, LaTonia was able to stay with various families in Dyersburg instead of living with the negative influences of her family. She blossomed as a peer tutor.
Outcomes & Benefits
During the 11/2011 NAWDP Youth Symposium, LaTonia presented her story during a best practices workshop on how Workforce Development & Education partnerships assist at-risk youth improve their chances for success. Her story of how a "bad kid" can change through positive role models and experiences was a highlight of the presentation. LaTonia is graduating in May 2012 & plans on pursuing a career in nursing. The WIA Peer Tutor program has given her faith in her abilities and the confidence to excel.
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