The wide range of actionable and relevant Thrive2027 data is used to target solutions and connect the dots between student achievement, economic prosperity, and healthier lives for our community.
Goal One
Thrive2027 began tracking the percent of 3rd graders reading proficiently in the 2015-16 school year using the Maine State Assessment. At the time, 59% of students read proficiently. The trend is heading in the right direction, but the shortfall in reading proficiency is especially pronounced among economically disadvantaged children in Cumberland County.
In 2014, 65% of homeowners and renters paid 30% or less of their household income on housing costs. In 2017, the latest year for which data are available, 70% of households in Cumberland County paid 30% or less of their income on housing. While homeowners are doing well and meeting benchmarks, many renters are struggling. Data show that 47% of renters pay more than 30% of their income on housing.
Years of Potential Life Lost (YPLL) is a way to measure premature deaths and is calculated based on a three-year period. From 2014 to 2016, YPLL was 5,400. From 2015 – 2017, YPLL increased to 5,800. YPLL is moving in the wrong direction across the country, including Cumberland County. The increase in drug overdoses is a primary contributor. Also adding to YPLL, approximately 30 Maine youth between 10 and 24 die by suicide each year.
Progress
TRACKING OUR PROGRESS
The wide range of actionable and relevant Thrive2027 data is used to target solutions and connect the dots between student achievement, economic prosperity, and healthier lives for our community.