Nearly 1.4 million adults in Kentucky lack a degree after high school, with 928,000 never having enrolled in college, and 464,000 having a few college credits but no degree. With Kentucky in the top 10 for states with the highest job vacancy rates, it’s not surprising that 52% of poverty stricken individuals did not attend college or a trade school.
A postsecondary education is critical before 2031, as 63% of jobs in Kentucky will require higher education for employment. While pursuing a degree above high school is important for closing gaps in the workforce and providing livable wages, it may not be attainable for everyone. Financial challenges, family obligations, work commitments, and academic readiness all play parts in why some are not able to pursue a degree past high school. Financial aid resources such as Pell Grants help to a certain extent but do not entirely unweight the burden of the cost of school.
Adult learner success is imperative to Kentucky’s postsecondary educational attainment goal of 60% of the population by 2030. Strategies to ensure the success of this goal consist of Adult Learner Communities, access to professional development, connection with childcare resources, and workforce partnership strengthening events. These resources are an avid attempt to encourage adults without a postsecondary education to pursue their goals while helping overcome obstacles along the way.
Source: Kentucky Student Success Collaborative
