Are You Up on the Latest News About Jobs?

• Estimates are that 70 percent of tomorrow's jobs have not yet been created.
• The workplace and skills needed to compete for its best jobs are changing at a mind numbing pace. Technological advancements have eliminated the need for certain jobs but created a new demand for employees who can adapt to the expanding dynamics of today's work environment.
• According to the U.S. Department of Education, seven out of ten students graduate high school without courses needed to succeed in college or the workplace. (U.S. Department of Education: www.Ed.gov)
• Analysts indicate that the United States is likely to face a shortage of 12 million qualified workers within the next decade (Bureau of Labor Statistics: www.bls.gov)

What Can I Do to Help Ensure Student Success?

1. As a parent of a high school student you can talk about the relationship between choices made and results earned:

• Research conducted by the U.S. Department of Education (U.S.E.D.) found that students who complete rigorous academic courses like the Scholars Course of Study enjoy, on average, a 13.1 percent wage advantage nine years after graduation, an effect that occurred regardless of whether the student attended college or not. (Zucker and Dawson, NCES 2001-168, table 21)
• Three long-term studies conducted by the U.S.E.D. demonstrate a strong correlation between courses completed in high school and postsecondary degree completion. (Adelman, Clifford, Answers in the Toolbox)
  A solid academic foundation in high school benefits every student, regardless of ethnicity and socioeconomic status. (www.ed.gov) 

2. As a parent you can share news about the Kentucky Scholars Program with others:

• Talk with local business owners, your local chamber of commerce, central office for public schools, - encourage your community to get behind a Kentucky Scholars Program
• Engage your student's teacher, counselor and principal in conversations about more rigorous courses and then assist them in adopting the Kentucky Scholars Program in your school or school district
• Find a champion or champions! The most successful Scholars programs are able to generate excitement, enthusiasm and involvement because they find those willing to provide a committed, strong voice and energy for the initiative
• Support the student journey - join with other parents, business owners and community members from all walks of life in forming groups that will keep students motivated and encouraged to complete their Scholars journey