As Kansas lawmakers work to fund K-12 education in the state, Emporia State President Allison D. Garrett today expressed gratitude for the progress being made and encouraged the Legislature to look at all education funding, as recently urged by the Kansas Board of Regents. Research shows that the best path to success includes education beyond high school, including state universities, community colleges and technical colleges.
“An excellent education helps Kansas residents find success in jobs, which drives the state economy,” Garrett said. “We at Emporia State are pleased that K-12 education is poised to receive additional funding. Furthermore, we ask our legislators to also focus on students’ educational opportunities after high school.”
All Kansas Regent schools benefit the State of Kansas with innovative programs and capable, qualified employees. Degrees from ESU are answering some of the state’s immediate needs in response to shortages of educators and nurses.
“Emporia State is committed to making a college degree accessible and affordable for our students,” Garrett added, noting that 75 percent of ESU students are from Kansas and most of them stay in Kansas for jobs.
ESU students graduate with the second-lowest debt load of Midwest regional universities, according to U.S. News and World Report. ESU students also report a 98 percent placement rate, meaning they are finding success in their chosen fields.
“Emporia State students are ready to work to make Kansas and their communities better,” said Megan McReynolds, a junior political science major and president of the ESU student body.