NUNAVUT - This past June, Ann Martha Evic graduated from Attagoyuk School.

Ann Martha Evic, centre, from Pangnirtung, is one of six young mothers who graduated from high school under the Department of Education's Young Parents Stay Learning Program. Beside her are her parents at her graduation ceremony in June. - photo courtesy of Ann Martha Evic

"It was the happiest day of my life," said the 19-year-old from Pangnirtung.

Graduating from high school is a major accomplishment in itself but especially so when you have a child.

Evic, a mother of a two-year-old daughter, was one of six young mothers who completed the Young Parents Stay Learning Program and was recognized in the legislative assembly this fall.

Finishing the program were Nattiq Quassa from Igloolik, Alookie Itorcheak and Alianai Niviatsiak both from Iqaluit, Lucy Akpalialuk from Pangnirtung and Donna Pitseolak-Kublu from Pond Inlet.

The program, offered by the Department of Education, subsidizes daycare fees for the children of young parents who want to finish their education.

It was first started in 2005 and has helped 115 students.

For Evic, she said she didn't think she was going to be able to graduate when she first got pregnant, but she knew she had to go back to school so that she could get a job.

Anyone under the age of 18 can apply for the program and the subsidy can be applied at a licensed daycare or private homecare. Parents could be attending high school or Nunavut Arctic Colllege.

Depending on the type of childcare available, parents would receive $500 to $700 per child per month.

"For a lot of parents, it makes it totally possible that they can actually finish high school, that they can attend school without the worries of where their children are," said Amy Graham-Oliver, early childhood officer, GN Department of Education.

Applicants have to submit a letter as to why they should be approved for the program.

"When they obtain their diploma it opens a few more doors for them and different opportunities," said Kayrene Kilabuk, early childhood officer with the GN's Department of Education.

In Pond Inlet, Elizabeth Peterloosie went back to Nasivvik School this past August after six months off from school.

Hoping to graduate in June 2011, Peterloosie said the program has helped her learn not only about herself but also about others.

Her family and friends' influence and support were a big reason as to why she returned to school, she said.

Evic had this advice for current students: "Go to school everyday, it's not that easy but everybody can do it."

We welcome your opinions. Click here to e-mail a letter to the editor.