The American Council on Education (ACE) is launching a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming higher education opportunities for military learners. “Today’s Military Learners” is set to enhance postsecondary education access for active-duty service members, veterans, reservists, National Guard members, and their families. This strategic effort seeks to bridge the gap between military experience and academic achievement, empowering military learners to build stronger futures.
Addressing the Educational Needs of Military Learners
Military learners often bring diverse, real-world experience to the table, but translating that experience into college credit can be challenging. ACE’s new initiative addresses this issue head-on by expanding Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), a system that evaluates and translates nontraditional learning, such as military service, into academic credit.
Supported by a $500,000 grant from Lilly Endowment, this initiative will streamline the education process for service members, reducing costs and accelerating degree completion. By expanding CPL opportunities, ACE aims to create more equitable access to higher education for those who have served.
Ted Maple, Lilly Endowment’s vice president for education, highlighted the importance of honoring and supporting military learners. “We deeply appreciate the service and sacrifice of military members and their families,” Maple stated, reinforcing the endowment’s commitment to educational empowerment.
A Legacy of Advocacy for Military and Adult Learners
ACE has a long-standing tradition of advocating for adult learners. Since its inception, the organization has played a pivotal role in developing educational programs that serve nontraditional students. Notable achievements include:
Creation of the GED program, providing high school equivalency credentials to adults.
Support and expansion of the GI Bill, which has enabled millions of veterans to pursue higher education.
Advancement of policies that recognize military training and life experience as valuable components of postsecondary education.
Through initiatives like “Today’s Military Learners,” ACE continues to build on this legacy, advocating for policies that ensure military learners are not left behind in the evolving educational landscape.
The Power of Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows military learners to translate their service experiences into academic credit. This not only shortens the path to degree completion but also reduces financial barriers, making higher education more affordable and accessible. CPL recognizes the valuable skills gained through:
Military training and leadership development
Technical skills acquired during service
Real-world problem-solving experience
The expansion of CPL programs ensures that military learners receive credit where it’s due, aligning their experiences with academic outcomes and workforce readiness.
Building the Future of America
The “Today’s Military Learners” initiative is more than just an educational program – it is an investment in America’s future. By empowering military learners to pursue higher education, ACE and its partners are strengthening communities, workforce development, and the overall economic landscape.
The initiative’s ultimate goal is to create a system where military learners can transition seamlessly into postsecondary institutions, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to succeed.
How to Get Involved
For military learners interested in learning more about CPL opportunities or exploring ACE’s educational programs, visit the ACE Military Learners Hub.
Final Thoughts
ACE’s launch of the “Today’s Military Learners” initiative marks a pivotal step toward expanding educational opportunities for service members and their families. Through innovative policies and unwavering advocacy, ACE continues to shape a brighter, more inclusive future for all military learners, empowering them to achieve their academic and career goals.
For more information, visit the official ACE website.
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