Every Learner on a path to a living wage

The Dallas County Promise of Economic Mobility

Every Middle School student with a career goal and High School ready

Every High School student earns a minimum of 15 college credits and a workforce credential with the will and skill to succeed in the world of work

Every college or workforce training student earns a credential of value with market valued skills and earns a living wage

Dallas County Promise Goals

True North Goal 2040

Dallas County has a true north goal of 50% living wage for young adults age 25-34 by 2040.

Vision 2030

  • By 2030, 50% of graduates will earn 15+ college credits and a workforce certificate; 15% will complete an associate degree.
  • Promise higher ed partners will track retention, completion, and wage outcomes for the classes of 2025–2027, aligned to the true north goal.
  • 70% of graduates will enroll in postsecondary programs or earn a living wage.
Impact
Dallas County Impact
Since 2017 the Dallas County Promise has been working in partnership with community partners on policy and practice priorities to improve student outcomes aligned with living wage jobs.
Progress Metrics for Dallas County Young Adults (Ages 25-34):
2017
Living Wage Attainment Rate:
25.9%
(assumes living wage of $48,567)
2017
Young Adults Living in Poverty:
13.2%
+6.0%
-2.5%
2023
Living Wage Attainment Rate:
31.9%
(assumes living wage of $60,651)
2023
Young Adults Living in Poverty:
10.7%

The Dallas County Promise Leadership Coalition

Advisory Board

Superintendents, college presidents, CEOs, and community leaders guiding goals and strategy. Link to our team and make it scroll down to the advisory board if possible.

Steering Group

Leaders prioritizing tactics across the student journey and enabling conditions (tech, policy, funding).

Alignment Council

County leaders convening 3x/year to elevate work and advise the steering group and board.

Working Groups

Formed to tackle priorities like enrollment simplification and workforce pathway alignment.

Working Together

Partners align across the student journey to put every learner on a path to a living wage.