Beating the Odds: Teen mom achieves advanced education degrees with support from family and Georgia Southwestern

This story originally appeared in the Summer 2025 edition of Sumter County Living.

Americus native ChaLance Deriso dreamed of one day becoming a teacher, but the odds were not in her favor. Pregnant at 16, she faced daunting statistics: 60% of teen mothers fail to graduate high school, and a mere 2% complete college by age 30.

“I let the dream go,” ChaLance says. “I didn’t think I would be able to do all the things I wanted since I was a child myself having a baby.”

ChaLance continued high school, and when she became pregnant again in her junior year, she decided she would settle on becoming a paraprofessional, a career that would allow her to provide for her two children while still working in the classroom.

With the support of her mother and grandmother, ChaLance graduated high school in 2013 and forged ahead, securing two associate degrees in 2018 in education and business from South Georgia Technical College.

Call it fate or providence, but while working at Bright Beginnings Daycare, two of ChaLance’s students happened to be children of employees who worked at Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW). Chelsea Collins, Director of Marketing and Communications, and Dr. Rachel Abbott, Dean of GSW’s College of Education, both recognized something special in ChaLance, and encouraged her to apply to the Friday-only program at GSW for working adults to finish their bachelor's degrees.

ChaLance was uncertain at first: “I never imagined myself being at a university, let alone GSW. Despite my doubts, I filled out the application and committed to the program. The faculty and staff were so loving and supportive; I just feel like everything happened for a reason and it was the right time.”

After three years, ChaLance completed her Bachelor’s degree through GSW’s hybrid education program, managing a full course load every semester and attending class on Fridays while working full-time and caring for two young children. Despite the challenges, the effort paid off significantly. “I did not have real financial stability until I graduated from GSW,” ChaLance explains. “Earning my bachelor’s degree tripled my salary from the preschool to the public schools.”

ChaLance fondly recalls pivotal moments of her GSW journey, emphasizing the profound impact of the university’s support network. She speaks highly of the connections made with her professors, highlighting how they advocated for her in meaningful ways.

“During my senior year when it came time for my internship, I was concerned I wouldn’t be making any money because I thought I may have to leave my daycare job. However, my professors made it a point to help me get a paid position at Dooly County Schools. They guided me through resume building, and even conducted mock interviews to boost my confidence for the real interview. Their support and guidance were instrumental in preparing me for the professional world.”

As a lead teacher at Sumter Primary, ChaLance has continued her educational journey at GSW, graduating with her Master of Education in 2023 and preparing to graduate with her Education Specialist degree this year. Her extensive training has allowed her to excel at work and follow her passion for math by leading the math team.

ChaLance credits her faith in God and the support of her family with her success. “I would not be where I am without my mom - I give her all the credit, because I shouldn’t be this far. I am blessed with such a great support system.”

If you would like to learn more about GSW’s College of Education programs, certificates and endorsements, visit gsw.edu/Education.  

Since this story's initial publication in Sumter County Living, Cha'Lance graduated with her specialist degree and married Demetree Merritt.