Fletcher says ‘this is one of the best things to ever happen in Lawrence County’

LOUISA, Ky., May 16, 2016 – Kentucky Power on Monday delivered the second installment of an $815,000 multi-year grant that is funding efforts to boost science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education in Lawrence County Schools.

The American Electric Power (AEP) Foundation Credits Count Grant, announced in 2015, is being funded over five years in partnership with Ashland Community and Technical College (ACTC). Since the first installment, ACTC has worked with Lawrence County Schools to expand STEM offerings and dual credit options. About 2,500 students stand to benefit from the grant. The project is designed to reach students as early as middle school to nurture their interests in STEM careers. As they advance, the project helps them earn college credits or career certifications by the time they finish high school. Monday’s grant installment totaled $167,375.

“This grant will help Lawrence County students move on to higher education and reach their career aspirations,” said Kentucky Power President and COO Greg Pauley. “The Foundation’s goal with this grant is to help students become fully prepared to graduate from high school ready for a career or with significant college credit hours toward a degree.”

The Credit Counts grant provides for:

* Middle school STEM experiences to engage students as early as possible in college exploration for STEM-related careers;

* College course readiness assessments to identify gaps in writing, math and reading that may need tutoring support;

* A summer bridge program to provide any needed English and math remediation prior to students entering the dual enrollment program;

* Dual enrollment in high school and at Ashland Community and Technical College.

Lawrence County Schools Superintendent Dr. Robbie Fletcher said the Credit Counts program and partnership with ACTC is helping students overcome academic and financial barriers to college and career achievement.

“I think this is one of the best if not the best thing to ever happen in Lawrence County Schools,” Fletcher said. “We are very thankful and excited about this opportunity.”   

The American Electric Power Foundation is funded by American Electric Power and its utility operating units, including Kentucky Power. The Foundation focuses on improving lives through education in science, technology, engineering, math and the environment and by meeting basic needs for emergency shelter, affordable housing and the elimination of hunger. Kentucky Power, with headquarters in Frankfort, Ky., provides service to approximately 169,000 customers in all or part of 20 eastern Kentucky counties.