StanFutures

StanFUTURES outcomes are focused on ensuring all Stanislaus County high school graduates are ready for post-secondary education and are able to successfully complete their degree or certificate program.
Priority Focus
StanFUTURES identified barriers to accessing education including the need for additional mental health supports, and coordinated efforts to engage and empower youth. The mental health working group is working to redesign the youth mental health system of care across the county to ensure all students have access to a variety of mental health supports on school campuses. StanYEA coordinates youth serving organizations and providing a coordinated youth empowerment effort across the county.
Why this Matters
A vibrant economy is key to building a healthy community and a better quality of life for all residents. The higher the education level of a region’s residents, the greater the impact on the regional economy. It is essential that all students graduate high school prepared to enter the workforce or pursue a higher education degree or trade school certificate. This will ensure that all residents are on a path to economic mobility.
StanFUTURES Data Dashboard
Highschool Graduating Class of 2024 College Enrollment

SOURCE: National Student Clearinghouse Demographic Report November 2025
Percent of Students Completing College Degree in Six Years

SOURCE: National Student Clearinghouse Aggregate Report 8-21-2024
* Percentages are rounded
Class of 2019 High School Graduates with College Degree in Six Years

SOURCE: National Student Clearinghouse Demographic Report November 2025
Key Insights and Challenges
On average, those with a Bachelor's Degree earn 70.4% more income than those without a college degree. 8% of residents have completed a 2-year degree and 19% have completed a 4-year degree, far below the state average.
We conducted over 100 interviews with system leaders, students, and parents to gain a more accurate understanding of the real needs, values, and aspirations of our target population. The research has revealed themes around mental health, the need for early exposure to careers and the impact of role models inside and outside of the classroom.
Current initiatives including Youth Mental Health, Stanislaus Youth Empowerment Alliance and the Early Education Pipeline are focused on addressing systems change related to the themes uncovered by StanFUTURES.
