The American Graduation Initiative

The Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act(SAFRA) (as passed in House as HR 3221) authorizes the American Graduation Initiative. The purpose of the American Graduation Initiative is to increase student completion of certificates and degrees leading to employment in high demand occupations, particularly for students from underrepresented populations including low income, dislocated workers, and low-skill adults.

The goal is to achieve 5 million new postsecondary degrees or credentials awarded by community colleges by 2020. Eligible entities include: community colleges, area career and technical education centers, public 4-yrs with AA-degrees, states in partnership with colleges, or a consortia of these groups. There are three competitive funding opportunities including the Early Learning Fund, the School Facilities Improvement and the American Graduation Initiative.