Kentucky is a state which has struggled with education historically. Currently its rate of baccalaureate attainment is 29%, almost 10% below the national average. However this doesn’t accurately represent the full picture. Kentucky has a goal of reaching a 60% attainment rate for postsecondary education. This means not only baccalaureates but any sort of verification or credential.
In reaching this end, Kentucky student success has been making progress. In the last five years alone there has been a 34% increase in degrees awarded to minority groups. For undergraduate degrees the overall increase has been 7% over the past five years. And in reaching for the 60% mark Kentucky has already reached 55% in 2023.
This is great progress which bodes well for the people of Kentucky and the state at large. In terms of just a bachelor’s degree, the benefits are undeniable. Compared to high school graduates those with a bachelor’s degree are more financially secure, work more, and make more. The benefits for other postsecondary credentials vary, but they are almost universally positive.
Moving forward Kentucky plans to keep this positive educational trend going. The efforts taken to do this are in keeping people within college. So providing resources for those who struggle to afford food, housing, or insurance. Ensuring that gateway courses are being passed and people mature from their first year. And ensuring that transfers are made as simple and practical as possible for those that need them.
It’s these efforts and ones like them that are moving Kentucky in a positive direction. Of course there are still issues like the rate of education for low income students. Although as the overall education rate rises this leaves the state more room to focus on certain groups. What’s left to be seen is where Kentucky will go after reaching their 60% education goal.
Source: Kentucky Student Success Collaborative