SALEM, Mass. - Four years of books, lectures, tests and term papers all woven into the life of a single mom raising three children and working to pay the bills. For Diane Flynn, a Salem State College senior nursing student from Lynn, the hard work, the sacrifices, the sleepless nights, and the determination are about to pay off.

When Flynn receives a bachelor's degree in nursing during Saturday's 10 a.m. commencement at the O'Keefe Sports Complex, she will move on to a new place in her life. It's a place Flynn readily admits she wouldn't be, without some help.

" If not for the (Salem State College) preschool program, I'd be just starting my pursuit of a degree this year instead of completing it," she said. As the result of a federal grant secured by Rep. John Tierney of Salem, Flynn was able to secure a "sliding fee" slot for two of her children in the college's on-campus preschool. The grant benefits low-income parents, allowing them proximity to their children while attending classes and studying at the library.

" Our student parents are extremely motivated. They work so hard to build a better future and their children receive a strong foundation for future learning," said Beverly Gerson, director of the Salem State College preschool.

Earlier this week, the youngest of Flynn's sons -- Christian -- was among 18 children who took part in the preschool's annual "Moving On" ceremony.

Flynn, who graduates with a 3.8 GPA, is one of four parent-students whose children qualified for a "sliding fee" slot in the preschool. For more information, contact Gerson at (978) 542-6408.