Whitney York: One Step Closer
Published on February 10, 2026
For Whitney York, returning to college was about finishing what she started and doing it on her own terms. A West Frankfort native and mother of three, Whitney is on track to graduate from John A. Logan College in May 2026 with a degree in Early Childhood Education. As a non-traditional student balancing full-time work, family responsibilities and online coursework, her journey reflects determination, flexibility and long-term purpose.
Whitney first attended John A. Logan College years ago, originally pursuing Early Childhood Education. Like many students, life intervened. “Life got crazy,” she said.
Marriage, raising a family and working full time took priority, and college was placed on hold. During that time, Whitney continued gaining experience in child care and later earned a Massage Therapy certificate from JALC. While massage therapy added to her skill set, she knew it was not the career she wanted to pursue every day. She enjoyed the work, she said, but preferred to keep it as something she could do on the side rather than full time.
Now 34, she made the decision to return to John A. Logan College with a clearer vision and far more responsibility than the first time. She now works full time as a teacher aide while raising three children and completing her degree entirely online. Balancing work, family and coursework has been demanding, but Whitney says the effort has been worth it. “It’s a lot,” she said. “But it’s worth it.”
The flexibility of online coursework has been essential. Being able to complete assignments on her own schedule allows Whitney to continue working, attend her children’s activities and manage daily life without sacrificing progress toward her degree. “I don’t have to be on campus to be able to be a student here,” she said. “I can sit down and do what I can, when I can.”
Whitney also credits the support she has received from instructors and advisors throughout her return to college. She describes the experience as accessible and encouraging, noting that help has always been available when questions arise. “All my instructors and advisors have been super nice and helpful,” she said.
Her passion for early childhood education is rooted in experience. Before transitioning into a school setting, Whitney spent 10 years working in child care and found the work both challenging and rewarding. Opening her own daycare remains the goal, and completing her degree is a key step toward making that happen.
There were moments when continuing felt overwhelming. On those days, her motivation came from home. “My kids motivate me to keep going on hard days,” Whitney said. “They’re watching me.”
As graduation approaches and her long-term goal comes into focus, Whitney remains focused on finishing strong. Her advice to others considering returning to college is simple. “Do it,” she said. “Don’t second-guess yourself.”
For Whitney York, returning to John A. Logan College was about finishing what she started and doing it on her own terms. With graduation approaching and her goal of opening her own daycare in sight, she is moving forward, one step at a time.