The Access College Early (ACE) Scholarship Program provides financial support to low-income Nebraska high school students for dual enrollment courses, aiming to expand college access and reduce time and cost to degree. This evaluation, conducted by NSWERS for the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education, examines the impact of the ACE Scholarship Program on high school performance and postsecondary outcomes.

Legislative Resolution (LR) 261 sought to examine the fiscal and strategic impact of unfunded, statutorily mandated waivers on Nebraska’s public universities, state colleges, and community colleges. In response, NSWERS, alongside a collaborative working group, provided the Nebraska state legislature a comprehensive evaluation of the scope, distribution, and outcomes associated with these waivers.

A new interactive scrollytelly story, Six-Month Sprint, brings to life the critical six-month window Nebraska college graduates face as they transition from student to employee. The story follows “Noah,” a fictional graduate whose journey mirrors the real data behind Nebraska’s college-to-career outcomes.

Students with strong social and economic ties to Nebraska—especially those who gain meaningful work experience during college—are significantly more likely to stay in the state after graduating. “Keeping Students in Nebraska” is an interactive digital story that brings to life the fictional journeys of three college students navigating education, work, and the pivotal decision of whether to stay in Nebraska after graduation.

Nebraska third graders who struggle with reading are significantly less likely to graduate high school on time and pursue higher education than those with strong reading skills. However, students who receive the right support can make substantial academic progress, even if they start below reading standards. “A Tale of Two Readers” tells the exemplar story of two Nebraska girls, Mia and Lila, who took different reading paths. Lila’s early advantage led her to a seamless transition into higher education, while Mia’s perseverance showcased the possibility of overcoming initial setbacks. Their journeys highlight the impact of early reading proficiency on future success and the importance of targeted reading support.

A college education is an investment in the future, offering a pathway to higher earnings that can offset the cost of attendance and lead to a better standard of living. However, failing to secure stable employment soon after college can result in long-term unemployment, underemployment, or other career challenges. This report underscores the importance of college graduation, relevant work experience during college, and targeted fields of study in securing stable employment in Nebraska within six months after college exit.