Photo: Leo Wesson

When Renee Perez has any extra money, she sets it aside for her five children. For the 38-year-old business information technology major at Texas Christian University, anything that isn't essential, like professional clothing, is a difficult purchase to justify.

She's noticed others in the Fort Worth business school’s orbit don’t seem to have the same concerns. Some colleges are taking note—and outfitting their students with professional clothing to help them prepare for the workplace.

Tucked in the mountains of northern California is the Hoopa Valley Reservation. It's the place Jada McCovey calls home. Soon, McCovey will leave her beloved place to go to college at the University of California, Davis. 

For generations, many high-achieving Native American students like McCovey have been kept from attending prestigious universities simply because of lack of funds. A new program is trying to make amends so that the dream of higher education becomes a reality for more Native students.

More South Carolina college students are enrolling in education-related study programs, a possible positive sign as the statewide teacher shortage worsens.

Growth in the profession is key, but stabilizing the workforce is even more important. Many teachers leave within their first five years. That’s why universities say they are focusing on support, professional development, and creating hands-on experiences.