The number of recent Indiana high school graduates heading to college is stagnant —

a worrying trend as the state struggles to boost educational attainment

Indiana Public Broadcasting reports that just half of Indiana high school graduates went to college in 2022 — a steep decline from the rate a decade ago.

The latest data was just released by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education.

The commission has made boosting college enrollment a top priority.

People with college degrees typically earn significantly more than those with high school diplomas.

And the state’s economy needs more educated workers.

But the college-going rate has remained stubbornly low for three years.

The decline is part of a national trend. Parents and students are concerned about the high cost of college.

And polls show that many young people believe a high school diploma is all they need for financial security.