WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Representative Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) announced today that the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is awarding $300,000 to the Owsley County Board of Education to develop and implement a program to reduce the high school drop out rate. The Owsley County Dropout Prevention Program will include new facilities for hosting performing arts/vocational training programs.

"Our region has a proud history of cultivating world class musicians, performers, and artisans and it is also a great way to keep kids engaged in education and developing marketable skills," said Rogers. "I applaud Owsley County on this forward-thinking initiative and am pleased to see ARC funds used to improve the schooling of our young people."

The project will include converting an existing space into a community-wide, multi-use auditorium and recording studio with seating for over 200 persons. Local sponsors and foundations will provide an additional $160,818.

Rogers works to provide funding for the ARC in his role as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee.