Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education

Kentucky Advising Academy awards mini-grants to 17 schools to support workforce readiness and advising

February 08, 2024

The Kentucky Advising Academy (KAA) recently awarded mini-grants reimbursable up to $5,000 to 17 Kentucky K-12 public schools and area technology centers to support postsecondary readiness advising.

Proposals focus on projects that increase student access to postsecondary opportunities, assist in student readiness for college enrollment and build essential skills necessary for college and career. Successful proposals support college campus visits, family postsecondary awareness nights, activities to help students transition from high school to college, and more.

Nicole Thomas, school counselor at Union County High School, said they are partnering with Henderson Community College to raise awareness, interest and participation in its Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program through student mentoring.

Eighth grade students at Russell County Middle School will have the opportunity to explore career options and network with community members and business leaders through its grant, according to Robin L. Rixon, college and career readiness counselor at Russell County School District.

“This is going to be a great experience not only for our students, but also for our community,” Rixon said.

Johnson Central High School’s grant will provide access for students to explore postsecondary opportunities including employment, training programs, two- and four-year institutions, internships and apprenticeships.

“Being able to support a student as they consider what comes next for them is one of my favorite things,” Amanda Austin, career support specialist at Johnson Central High School, said. “You have the opportunity to stand with this young adult as they begin planning their future life and goals.”

Schools and districts receiving grants are:

Last Updated: 2/9/2024