Is UNA Failing the Shoals Area?

 

Perhaps it's a case of a horse refusing to drink after being led to water. It would seem logical that the closer one lived to an institution of higher learning, the easier it would be to obtain a college degree. Apparently that's not true for all.

According to the latest statistics available (2019), just over 25% of adults in Alabama have at least a four-year degree. For the purposes of the study, an adult is defined as anyone 25 and over. Florence has, if one counts Heritage Christian University, two institutions offering bachelor's and master's degrees. Wouldn't it follow that Lauderdale County would have a higher than average educational attainment?

Sorry. Lauderdale has a rate of 24.5%, or almost one percent less than the state average. Colbert has 18.1%, and Franklin trails at 14%. 

We know many who work in what's commonly called a trade who have college degrees. A university degree has been the "new high school diploma" for decades now. Is UNA failing? Are our high schools failing?

Look at bright side: At least Alabama has a real winner where it counts - Nick Saban and Alabama football...