About the Partnership

The Partnership was created to reduce the dropout rate for economically disadvantaged and academically deficient secondary school youth. Its continuing mission is to assist students to remain in school, to graduate, and to make successful transitions to post-secondary education or employment.

History

Formed in 1988 as a collaborative community initiative, the original partners included:

• Jefferson County Public Schools
• Louisville and Jefferson County governments
• Workforce Investment Council
• Greater Louisville, Inc.
• Metro United Way

Partnership Goals

• The graduation rate for eligible seniors will be 90 percent or greater.
• Graduating seniors will successfully transition to post-secondary schools, employment, or military service at a rate of 80 percent or better.
• The dropout rate for all Partnership students will be at or below four percent.

Organizational Structure

Management and support for the program is provided for by a central office staff. The key figures in the program are the career planners who work in 18 Jefferson County high schools. Each career planner manages an average caseload of 80 current and former students.

Accomplishments

• Since 1988, more than 23,000 students have participated in Partnership programs.
• National recognition of the program has come at regular intervals over the years.
• Of 21 programs started around the nation in 1988, only the Louisville Education and Employment Partnership has withstood the test of time. Similar programs established throughout the United States have fallen by the wayside, yet year in and year out, the Louisville Partnership continues to serve students well and to provide support for their success.