Investing in Student Success:
College & Career Readiness
At the Bardstown Foundation for Excellence in Public Education, we are committed to preparing students for success beyond high
school—whether that means attending a college or university or stepping directly into a career. Through our Student Opportunities
Initiative, we fund Advanced Placement (AP) tests, industry certification exams, and dual-credit courses to help students gain a competitive
edge in their future endeavors.
Why This Matters
Postsecondary education and workforce readiness can be costly, and we believe financial barriers should never stand in the way of a student’s ambition. By covering these expenses, we provide students with the chance to:
​
-
Earn college credit while still in high school through dual-credit courses.
-
Stand out in college admissions with AP exam scores.
-
Graduate career-ready with industry-recognized certifications.
Our Impact
This initiative is new, but growing! Over the last two years, we have invested more than $10,000 to support students pursuing higher education and career pathways.
​
During the 2023-24 School Year, We Funded:
234 AP Exams for
137 students
giving them the opportunity to earn college credit and demonstrate academic excellence.
41 students earned
industry certifications
in fields such as engineering, health science, and Medicaid Nurse Assistant (MNA).
What does it cost?
1
AP Exams
$98 per test. Many students take multiple tests each year ranging from AP US History, AP Calculus, AP Biology, AP English, and more.
2
Industry Certification
$12-$73 per exam. Earn industry certifications in engineering, healthcare, culinary, construction, automotive, and IT, including NOCTI, AutoDesk, Medicaid Nurse Aide, Phlebotomy, CCMA, EKG, ServSafe, ASE, and CompTIA.
3
Dual Credit Courses
$234 per credit hour. Students can take dual credit from higher education institutions like University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, Western Kentucky University, ECTC, and more.
Every dollar invested in these programs directly impacts a student’s future—helping them save on tuition, graduate with industry credentials, and step confidently into the next chapter of their lives.