- 4 in 10 high school students in our region are not pursuing secondary education or workforce training.
- 1 in 3 people in our region is economically insecure.
- 70% of projected job openings in our region will require some form of post-high school education or training.
- Washington ranks 49 of 50 states in students submitting applications for federal financial aid, leaving available financial support unused.
Imagine if an entire community came together to ensure every child has the opportunity — and support — to pursue their career and post-high school education of choice. This is the bold promise of LaunchNW, a community and economic vitality initiative spanning 20 counties in Eastern Washington and North Idaho, impacting 102 school districts, nearly 150,000 students, and over one million residents.
LaunchNW includes a scholarship program that serves as an incentive to communities to participate so their students can benefit. In addition to providing scholarships, LaunchNW also coordinates services and support to families so students can overcome the barriers to high school completion and to pursuing post-high school career opportunities.
Each county that participates can vary in its structure and collaborative governance model so the program may look different outside of Spokane County where the program is currently underway. LaunchNW recognizes that counties need the flexibility to meet the specific needs of each community throughout our region.
Program coordinated by PJ Watters Hawley.
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