Beyond Basic Skills – State Strategies to Connect Low-Skilled Students to an Employer-Valued Postsecondary Education

How much does college matter for getting ahead in America? Having a postsecondary education–broadly defined as a credential beyond a high school diploma–continues to be one of the most important factors in getting a good job and advancing in the workforce.

By one estimate, 64 percent of jobs in 2018 will require more than a high school diploma, although not necessarily a four-year degree.1 For each year of postsecondary education, an adult is more likely to be employed, earn family-sustaining wages, lead a healthier life, and have children who are better prepared to succeed in school.2

The country, too, benefits from a more educated workforce. Studies of the return on government investments in education (at all levels, not just K-12) show that it is a sound use of public funds.

Full Story: http://www.clasp.org/admin/site/publications/files/Beyond-Basic-Skills-March-2011.pdf