How a place-based partnership is creating paths to opportunity after high school

In the heart of southeastern Kentucky, communities are working together to ensure every young person can build a future close to home. The Appalachian Cradle to Career Partnership (APPC2C) is aligning education, workforce and community systems to expand access to postsecondary pathways — helping students move from high school to college, credentials and careers.

The results are clear: postsecondary completion rates in the region have climbed from 5.9% in 2017 to 25.9% in 2023, with completion among students experiencing poverty more than tripling. Through initiatives like dual-credit courses, paid internships and hands-on STEM learning, students are gaining the skills and confidence to pursue meaningful work and long-term economic mobility.

As part of the StriveTogether Cradle to Career Network, APPC2C shows what’s possible when rural partnerships use data, collaboration and community voice to drive systems change. This case study explores how local leaders are building pathways that keep opportunity within reach and redefining what’s possible for every student in Appalachian Kentucky.