Kentucky bucks trend as rural states slash higher education funding / Public News Service

In Hazard, Kentucky, a small community nestled in the hills of Southeast Kentucky, residents are facing a dilemma when it comes to pursuing higher education. With a shortage of teachers and limited educational opportunities, many residents are place-bound, unable to commute long distances for a four-year degree.

Haley Autumn Dawn Ann Crank, a recent high school graduate, dreams of becoming a teacher but is faced with the reality of having to leave her hometown or endure a long commute to pursue her education. The collapse of the coal industry in the region has made it harder for residents to survive on a high school education, leading to economic challenges and limited job opportunities.

In response to these challenges, the Kentucky legislature is exploring ways to bring baccalaureate degrees to the region. One option being considered is to turn Hazard’s community and technical college into a standalone institution offering degrees in high-demand fields like teaching and nursing. This move could potentially bring economic growth to the region and serve as a model for other underserved areas across the country.

While the proposal carries significant costs and risks, including concerns about enrollment and job opportunities, many believe that expanding education in Hazard is essential for the region’s future. By providing affordable and accessible four-year degrees, the hope is to break the cycle of poverty and create new opportunities for the residents of Southeast Kentucky.

As Hazard undergoes a revitalization and residents embrace a sense of pride and possibility, the prospect of a four-year college in the region is seen as a crucial step towards a brighter future. With the support of the Kentucky legislature, Hazard could soon see the transformation of its educational landscape, offering hope and opportunity to its residents.