In Kentucky, postsecondary education will be required by 63% of employers by 2031, however, nearly 1.4 million adults lack this credential. 928,000 never enrolled in college, and 464,000 have some college credit but no degree. While a postsecondary education almost guarantees higher income and increased job opportunities, it isn’t entirely realistic for many.
Financial difficulties, work commitments, family responsibilities, and academic readiness create barriers for many adult learners when pursuing higher education. Only 50% of adult learners have their educational finances partially covered by a Pell Grant. Three in five full-time adult learners have jobs, while four in five part-time adult learners have jobs. 48% have children and face the challenge of limited childcare availability as well as high prices for these services. Finally, many have been out of school for a long period of time, so returning to the system brings the need for additional academic support.
Adult learner success is imperative to Kentucky’s education attainment goal of 60% of the population attaining a postsecondary degree by 2030, so systems have been put into place to reach these goals. These systems include adult learner communities, childcare resources, access to professional development, and resources to strengthen workforce partnerships.
