It's "never say never" when it comes to higher education in John Robertson's family.

While in her 50s, his late mother, Veronica Robertson, earned a master's degree in nursing administration.

On Jan. 16, a decidedly middle-aged John Robertson of Beltzhoover was awarded a bachelor's degree in education from Carlow University. During the same winter commencement, his wife, Carolyn Robertson, received a master's degree in counseling, while the couple's daughter, Blair Robertson-Fisher, a mother of two young children, received a master's degree in education.

Mr. Robertson called Carlow "a good fit for an older adult worried about being around sharp kids."

"Those kids rallied around me, and the faculty was accessible; no one will let you fail," he said.

Since most of his classes were held during daytime, Mr. Robertson had to quit his job as a Port Authority Transit bus driver, the savings from which are the family's primary means of support.

"It was something I really wanted, and my wife and daughter really encouraged me," Mr. Robertson said.

The seeds of his dream of becoming a teacher were planted 10 years ago helping his children Blair and Brittany, 19 -- who attends the University of Pittsburgh -- with their homework. These days he helps son Jordan, 13.

"I felt proud that they decided to take time out of their lives to achieve the goals they set for themselves," said their daughter, Mrs. Fisher, of Beechview, who also credits her husband, Eldavon Fisher, a Point Park University criminal justice student, for his support.

Two weeks ago, Mr. Robertson began studies for a master's degree in curriculum and instruction in the School of Education at Pitt.

Mrs. Robertson is interning in counseling, while her daughter recently had her second interview for a position as a behavior specialist consultant.

Mrs. Fisher said the message she would like to convey is simple: "If you have family, or are working full time, you can still accomplish your goals," she said.

The popular "Late Nite Catechism" series comes to the South Hills on Feb. 13 with a new twist. The latest class in this funny series has Sister offering up hilarious lessons on the sacrament of marriage, including her own version of the "Newlywed Game." Classroom participation is a must, and it's all for a good cause: Helping a local family battle cancer.

All proceeds go directly to the Duttines, of Whitehall, a family battling cancer on two fronts. In August, 2-year-old Jaden was diagnosed with metastatic neuroblastoma, an aggressive cancer that requires months of chemotherapy, hospitalizations and a stem cell transplant. His mother, Julie, has been fighting her own battle with metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma and has endured multiple surgeries and radiation treatments.

Mrs. Duttine and her husband, Joe Duttine, are Brentwood High School graduates.

This fundraising effort, A Celebration Of Love, is a way for the community to rally around the Duttines while enjoying a comedy production.

Two shows -- at 2 and 8 p.m. -- will be held at St. Elizabeth Gym in Baldwin Borough. Both include hors d'oeuvres and desserts. Tickets are $40 to $65. For information or reservations, call 412-207-0760.

To follow the Duttine family story, go to supahmommy.blogspot.com and click on Jaden Duttine's name.

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