» Post-Secondary Completion

OUR VISION:

All students enrolled in a post-secondary program will complete their chosen field of study within six years.

Upon review of data and trends for post-secondary completion, SAM’s Board of Directors voted to renew SAM’s strategic focus on the goals and strategies laid out in the Spartanburg County Compact, the document laying forth the imperative to increase the number of residents with baccalaureate degrees. Why? Because the data still hold true. Having a four-year degree improves personal economic security and mobility; and, a community with a well-educated, fouryear degree holding workforce increases the economic security and mobility for all. SAM has championed the concept that not every post-secondary path or institution fits for every adult building careers skills; but, that some form of post-secondary training is needed for all. With this renewal of emphasis on four year degrees, SAM’s strategic initiatives will hone in on the messages, resources, and opportunities for our county’s high school graduates to reach this key milestone. It remains the essential goal for building individual economic security and mobility; and remains a foundational draw for increased career paths for all.

COUNTYWIDE

36%

of the class of 2015 completed their program of study within 6 months of high school graduation

4-YEAR DEGREE

2-YEAR DEGREE

NO DEGREE CLASS OF 2013

12%

63% 25% CLASS OF 2014

12%

61% 27% CLASS OF 2015

10%

64% 26%

Minding the Achievement Gaps

50

40

42.6 44

42.6

30

24.9 27

24.1 28.7 31.2

25.6

20

10

0

48.4 49.8 49.1 2013 2014 2015

22.7 27.4

22.5

NOT ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED