subject: The Key To The Future: Educate Mothers [print this page] Education is always an important key to a good future. Since running for office in 2008, President Barack Obama has made education a priority issue for his administration. Grants and scholarships are just the beginning of efforts to try to make over higher education.
College expenses continue to increase even as the economy slumps. College costs can really add up especially when money for things besides tuition and housing is considered. Many young adults choose to forgo college because of the cost. Working, single mothers are particularly hit hard. To put more educated minds in the workforce and ensure that families are cared for, it's important to educate moms. The President has attempted to help by encouraging more grants for single mothers to attend school. If you've heard of Obama grants for moms, know that people are referring to Federal Pell Grants. Currently students can earn about $5,350 through a Pell grant. This is an increase of $1,000 over the previous maximum, and the goal is to help working mothers return to school. The scholarship money covers practically all school-related expenses.
Another worthwhile program is the American Opportunity Tax Credit. With this tax credit, the first $4,000 of college expenses are free. Especially for less expensive schools, $4,000 could be a significant help for a student. Both of these tax programs help single moms tremendously because they are traditionally low-income individuals. There are almost no restrictions on where and what a student studies. Now the expenses are just a little lighter, and eager mothers can enroll in school.
The President has demonstrated that he considers this issue a priority. The stimulus plan that passed has some provisions to make the college loan process easier. Preparing schools and students for success is an important Obama administration mission. Since many overlook community colleges, there is emphasis on increasing their effectiveness and appeal. A 2-year degree or the time spent learning a technical school from a community college can be a tremendous asset.
In his 2007 Reclaiming the American Dream speech, Obama stated, "We need to put a college education within reach of every American. That's the best investment we can make in our future." So far Obama's actions are backing up his words. If the goal is to educate as many as possible, making grants available for mothers is a good step. Traditional and non-traditional students alike have numerous opportunities to put their education first.
