Postsecondary education, or the pursuit of a college/trade school degree, is a field in which Kentucky’s population falls short in completing compared to most states. Nearly 1.4 million adults in Kentucky do not have a degree past high school, with 66% never having enrolled in college, and 33% having some college credits but no degree.
While a postsecondary education might open up more doorways, provide more livable wages, and close overall educational gaps in the workforce, it is not realistic for everyone. While 50% of adult learners receive financial help through a Pell Grant, challenges are still present as 48% of these learners have children and cannot afford the increasing prices of childcare. Many also have to juggle work while pursuing the degree or have been out of school for a number of years and require additional academic support to succeed.
Kentucky has launched a mission to reach 60% of the population having a postsecondary education by 2030. To help this become a reality the state has launched strategies such as launching learner communities, offering childcare solutions, connection with professional development resources, and events to strengthen workforce partnerships. An increase in postsecondary education is incredibly important to the state of Kentucky, so these measures are being put into place to help adult learners on their journey.
