Kentucky studies is a class offered by some schools; however, it should be made mandatory for all high school students.
Teaching Kentucky studies in high school fosters engaged citizenship, connects students to local history and economic opportunities, and builds critical thinking through real-world applications.
When you teach students about their community, it helps them develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. The more you know about what’s happening around you, the more you will grow to appreciate it. Understanding Kentucky’s past helps students appreciate its diverse identity, which is crucial for building a stronger future for local communities.
Students who know about where they are from are more likely to participate in local events. From fairs, farmers’ markets, and other community activities, students will learn the true reason for these events and show more interest in them. This will help build community engagement as more people will attend and even volunteer. Students gain a deeper understanding of their community, making them better equipped to act as engaged citizens and contribute to their local community.
Beyond just learning history, a Kentucky studies class shows students how they can find jobs right here at home. This is a crucial skill, as roughly 60% of students remain in the state after high school graduation, whether that means going to college or directly into the work force.
By looking at the state’s biggest businesses, like car farming and manufacturing, students can find career paths they never knew about. This helps young people see that they do not have to move far away to find a good job. When we understand how our state makes money, we are more likely to stay and help our own local economy grow.
Knowing our own backyard is just as important as learning about the rest of the world. A student who graduates without knowing how Kentucky’s government works or how our local leaders make a difference is missing out. We should not wait any longer to make this class a requirement. If we want to be ready for the future, we need to start by learning about the place we call home.
