2015 Roadmap Update

The 2015 Roadmap Update

On December 10, 2015, the Council adopted the 2015 Roadmap Update report. This 2015 Roadmap Update is the first progress report on Washington State’s educational attainment goals, that by 2023:

• All adults in Washington, ages 25–44, will have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 70 percent of Washington adults, ages 25–44, will have a postsecondary credential.

Progress Metrics

We have analyzed data on three core measures: (1) high school completion, (2) postsecondary enrollment, and (3) postsecondary completion. In addition, we provide results for leading indicators that impact the core measures. The leading indicators included in this report represent key metrics that demonstrate a direct and influential connection to our attainment goals.

Key Findings - Educational Attainment: 

The rate of educational attainment by Washington adults (ages 25-44) has marginally increased.

High School Completion

1. High school graduation rates have increased slightly.
2. For many students of color, for special education students, English language learners, and for students who are low income, homeless, or in foster care, graduation rates are low when compared to the rate for all students.

Postsecondary Enrollment

1. Enrollment declined, especially among students over 25, suggesting that more students are returning to the workforce as the economy improves.
2. Increases in apprenticeships, while still small in numbers relative to enrollments, are also related to economic recovery.
3. Requests for financial assistance remain high.

Postsecondary Completion

1. Postsecondary awards have increased slightly, especially among students ages 18–24.
2. Postsecondary awards have increased for some underrepresented groups.

The Need for Further Progress

Our state is becoming more diverse, and our success depends on greater attention to underserved populations within our education system. Reaching our attainment goals will require continued investments in existing successful programs and a heightened focus on emerging areas of need. The 2015 Roadmap Update highlights two areas needing particular attention:

1. High school completion and postsecondary access and completion for historically underserved and underrepresented populations.
2. Postsecondary recruitment, retention, and completion for working-age adults.

Further action is needed across the spectrum of K-12 transition and postsecondary education policies, investments, and innovations. By leveraging the opportunities available, by responding effectively to the challenges we face, and by making the necessary investments, we will be able to accelerate progress toward our state’s educational attainment.