The instructors of the Selma Works and FIT programs at Wallace Community College Selma thought they were going to a staff meeting called by the president of the college.

Instead, their students in the federally funded Selma Works and Focused Industry Training programs surprised them with a special presentation full of awards, hugs and many thanks.

“We wanted to honor our instructors and decide to do this before the big test we have coming up,” said FIT student Dale Dailey.

Dailey said the instructors created a change in all their lives and helped prepare them for today’s job market.

“They created a real turn-around for us,” Dailey said. “So all of us students decided to get together and plan this surprise for them.”

The Selma Works program, a free service offered by WCCS, operates as a remedial for people who do not have a high school diploma or have not been in school for several years, and are looking for a job in a new field.

The FIT program is the next step after Selma Works, where students receive a small stipend for undergoing job training.

Throughout the special presentation, students took turns thanking their instructors for their patience and dedication to getting them on the right track. They also gave their teachers gifts and plaques as a small token of their appreciation.

“I thank God for this program. I know it was hard with us, but you showed a lot of patience,” said Nora Rush, addressing her instructors. “When I’m in class and someone has patience with me, it makes me want to go further.”

Kimberly Ivey, the FIT Job Readiness Instructor, said these past few months have been an “interesting ride” for her.

“We’ve had lots of ups and downs, but we got to the end,” Ivey said. “Our students did an excellent job and exceeded the goals they set for themselves.”

Job Coach Martha Melton, said she enjoyed helping the students achieve and had high hopes they will land the job of their dreams.

“I am very proud of these men and women,” Melton said. “I know they will reach their goals.”

The surprise ended with a few words from WCCS President Dr. James Mitchell, who congratulated everyone on a job well done.

Mitchell then handed out his own gifts to everyone before they all ate a lunch provided by the students.