Mr. Clausell Harding was celebrating his third year anniversary of his position as Director of Adult Education in Michigan City on our interview date (October 4). Being born and raised in Tennessee—along with attending Lauderdale High School in Ripley and Tennessee State University in Nashville—helped to prepare him for the rest of his life in administration and adult education.
“From Nashville, I moved to Gary and taught social studies and special education for nine years. During that time, I was employed by Gary Community Schools. My administration positions included being a Dean at Lew Wallace, Assistant Principle at Beckman, and then Adult Education Administrator & Principal at Lew Wallace High School. I’m very fortunate to be Michigan City Area Schools’ Director of Adult Education,” Harding said.
Harding is happily married to his wife Beverly and she has blessed him with two sons, Dion and Ryan. His boys are also blissfully wedded and have given Harding four wonderful grandchildren. Through the help and support of his family and friends, Harding has been able to achieve his goals of being a teacher and administrator.
“I’ve always enjoyed working with people, especially in schools. Before I went to college, I knew that I wanted to work in the public school system and collaborate to make everything better for students, teachers, and parents,” Harding said.
Michigan City Area Schools (MCAS) has rewarded Harding with his dream job: helping adults and young adults receive their GED (General Equivalency Diploma) through MCAS high school equivalency program. Interestingly enough, in 2014 the program will be renamed TASC, or test assessing secondary completion.
At the end of the day, Harding always wishes he could accomplish more, such as getting additional community members involved with Adult Education. Each year, more and more GEDs are presented to those who have achieved ample test scores.
“We try to do better each day and each year…together. Nothing changes my life more than working with individuals that are just as passionate as I am. I love working with students, staff members, parents, administrative heads, and various members of our community. I’m confident about what we bring to the neighborhoods of La Porte County and we will do my utmost to spread that passion to others,” Harding said.
Improving quality of life in Michigan City and La Porte is very important to Harding. If everyone contributed to their community and society, then everything would work out for the better in many ways.
“All of us, as a community, need to be there for one another and help out the best way that we can. At the A.K. Smith Center, we help our students get ready for their future careers. Society changes year by year, so we are always prepared for today’s needs in our diverse country,” Harding said.