KEDC Awarded GEAR UP ELEVATE Grant to Serve Students Across Eastern Kentucky

Ashland, KY (October 1, 2025) – The Kentucky Educational Development Corporation (KEDC) is proud to announce it has been awarded the GEAR UP Grant, a seven-year federal initiative designed to expand postsecondary access and success for underserved students in rural, high-poverty communities.

Through the ELEVATE project, KEDC and its partners will serve students across 27 schools in 12 districts, providing critical supports to strengthen academic performance, high school graduation, and college-going outcomes.

Project Goals:

  • Increase academic performance and preparation for postsecondary education
  • Boost high school graduation and college enrollment rates
  • Expand student and family knowledge of college options, preparation, and financial aid

ELEVATE Services:

  • Academic support and college readiness programs
  • College awareness and preparation experiences
  • Financial literacy education
  • Parent and family engagement opportunities
  • Early intervention and student support services
  • Professional development for educators

Participating Districts: Bourbon, Boyd, Harrison, Johnson, Lawrence, Lewis, Magoffin, Martin, Morgan, Nicholas, Rockcastle, and Rowan Counties.

Partners: Morehead State University, Ashland Community & Technical College, Hazard Community & Technical College, Maysville Community & Technical College, Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College, Kentucky Center for Mathematics, Kentucky Writing Project, KHEAA, AdvanceKentucky, Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence, Pathways, WhyTry, Lego® Education, SCRIBE, Mastery Prep, and NCCEP.

“This grant represents a transformative opportunity for our students, families, and communities,” said  CEO, Nancy Hutchinson of KEDC. “Together with our partners, we will ensure students see postsecondary education as not only possible but attainable.”

“For 60 years, KEDC has helped shape future generations of Kentuckians,” said Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY), who wrote a letter of support for the grant application. “This federal award will strengthen their work by expanding mentorship, guidance, and resources for students in need across our Commonwealth. I especially want to thank CEO Nancy Hutchinson and her entire team for their dedication to putting the GEAR UP grant to work for Kentucky students, including those in Bourbon and Nicholas Counties right here in the Sixth District.”