Kentucky has set a goal of having 60% of its population hold a postsecondary credential by 2030. Postsecondary credentials have clear impacts on individuals and society at large. For example, 30% of Kentuckians with a high school diploma receive public assistance, whereas only 8% of those with a bachelor’s degree or higher receive this assistance. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree can aid in finding financial security, and Kentucky hopes to boost its economy through education.
However, undergraduate enrollment in key groups (low-income earners and adult learners) have declined in Kentucky over the last decade. Kentucky falls behind the US average in terms of bachelor’s degree attainment. There is work to be done to meet its goal in the upcoming years.
Luckily, certain organizations are dedicated toward supporting student success and degree attainment. The Kentucky Student Success Collaborative, also known as KYSSC, provides funding, training, and community in the hopes of generating transformational educational change. More specifically, KYSSC has developed 24 statewide recommendations that focus on improvements in three areas: supporting student basic needs, improving transfer pathways, and increasing gateway course success.
So far, KYSSC’s work has led to noticeable improvements, although there is still work to be done. As 2030 draws closer, Kentucky hopes to increase its population of bachelor’s degree holders and find increased success, both educational and economic.
