Liliana Rosas’ life changed the moment her daughter, Leah, was diagnosed with autism. Like many parents, she was overwhelmed with questions and uncertainty in a desperate search for answers. She spent hours researching therapies, navigating long waitlists and learning how to advocate for her youngest daughter, and along the way, she discovered her calling.   

“I wanted to help her figure out how to move forward,” Rosas said. “I ended up realizing how much I wanted to help kids facing the same diagnosis, and that motivated me to finish high school so I could explore a career that involves special needs.”  

Click here to view the Adult Education Graduation photos.

That newfound mission led Rosas back to the classroom she left 15 years earlier when a fear of failing caused her to drop out. On June 27, she walked across the stage as one of nearly 150 Harris County residents who earned their High School Equivalency certification (HSE, formerly known as GED) or completed English as a Second Language (ESL) coursework during the 2025-2026 academic year. 

Superintendent James Colbert Jr., Assistant Superintendent of Education and Enrichment Dr. CJ Rodgers and Adult Education Senior Director Dr. Eduardo Honold joined graduates and their families to recognize their accomplishments. Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia delivered the keynote address, encouraging graduates to view the ceremony as a stepping stone rather than a finish line.  

“Everybody here today has earned and fought for the certifications and diplomas that they received,” Garcia told graduates. “To the Class of 2026, you can, and you will continue to be lifelong learners. Do not stop here, continue to the next level.” 

Rosas considered returning to school several times over the years, like her classmates, but the timing never seemed right. However, with all three of her children enrolled in school, and the need to advocate for Leah’s medical, mental and educational well-being arose, Rosas knew she needed to act. She enrolled at HCDE’s Baytown Adult Education site and finished her coursework ahead of schedule. Rosas was one of the first students in her class to pass all the HSE exams and even found herself encouraging classmates who struggled.  

“The Adult Education program was easier than I thought,” she said. “The teachers were amazing and very helpful. I enjoyed learning and even felt empowered enough to start encouraging my classmates, saying, ‘You can do it, you can pass.’”  

Honold reminded graduates at the ceremony that their accomplishments reflected months – and for some – years of determination and resilience to earn their certifications and pursue a better life for themselves and their families.  

“Each of you showed up to your classes daily with grit, and you probably shocked some people who underestimated you,” Honold said. “You earned your place on this stage, and we expect a lot more from you.”    

Rosas’ husband and children were among the proud families cheering as Honold handed her a diploma at graduation. She described feeling immense pride in herself and a commitment to ensure her children graduate from high school and attend college.  

“I’m proud that they were able to see I completed my education at the age that I did, but I want them to do it sooner,” she laughed. “I’m glad they know that no matter what age, you never stop learning.”  

The recent graduate plans to attend Lee College to study a field related to special education, with the hope of working with children with special needs. She also hopes to support families who might feel alone as they navigate unfamiliar diagnoses and therapies.  

“When your child receives that diagnosis, you feel like there’s no way out, and that’s not true,” an emotional Rosas said. “We’re not alone, and there’s a lot of help out there. I’m proud to be on the journey to become part of that help.” 

The diplomas and certificates earned by Adult Education’s Class of 2026 represent more than a second chance. They are the foundation for the future each graduate wants to build, where lessons learned become a source of hope for prospective students.