The need

WHY IT MATTERS

Many qualified high school graduates from low-income households and those first in their families to attend a U.S. college do not make it to and through postsecondary institutions due to gaps in access to resources and support systems needed to navigate the complexities of higher education.

FINDING A JOB

About 70% of jobs in Maryland require some level of postsecondary education. Montgomery County’s strong economy relies on a well-educated workforce. However, far too many motivated Montgomery County Public Schools graduates do not have the opportunity to receive the necessary intervention to navigate the systemic postsecondary education barriers that leads to a degree or certificate as compared to their more affluent peers.

2020_stat_rev2
lifetime_earnings

SUCCEEDING AT WORK

Having a Bachelor’s degree transforms earning potential - people with higher education credentials are able to earn over $1 million more than high school graduates and are also less likely to be unemployed.

SUPPORTING A FAMILY

A family of four requires at least $79,330 in annual income to live in Montgomery County. The costs add up quickly — the graph to to the right breaks them down.

family_of_four_stat3

HOW WE'RE HELPING

CollegeTracks has two programs in place to help students navigate the complex college applications and enrollment process, as well as coach them through the financial, academic, and personal challenges they may face in college.

Learn more