subject: Obama Grants: Money To Help You Attend College [print this page] It's widely accepted that education is important to having a successful future. Since running for office in 2008, President Barack Obama has made education a priority issue for his administration. One major part of the effort is to make available to students more free money for college.
Although the economy has dramatically fallen, college prices have continued to rise for many years. College costs can really add up especially when money for things besides tuition and housing is considered. Many potential students suffer and are unable to afford to go to college. One group that is particularly hit hard is single mothers. More education helps single mothers achieve on their jobs and take care of their families. Creating college grants for moms is one way the President is dealing with this issue. Federal Pell Grants have now been fondly called Obama grants. These grants award a student over $5,000 to go to college. The primary goal is to encourage single moms to return to school, and by 2012 they could receive as much as $5,400. With these grants for moms, they can pay for tuition, books or any other school-related expenses.
There's also another great program: the American Opportunity Tax Credit. With this tax credit, the first $4,000 of college expenses are free. This is a worthy incentive, especially for schools that are less expensive. Since many single working mothers have low incomes, these programs are a major help. Another great factor is that students aren't particularly targeted based on what or where they study. Diversity is encouraged. With more incentives, more ambitious adults will realize their goal to get a college degree.
Increasing educational opportunity and performance is undoubtedly one of the President's goals. Through the recent stimulus package, many undergraduate and graduate loans will be less of a burden. The administration is also focusing on improving the performance of schools at all levels. 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 a 2007 speech called Reclaiming the American Dream, the President said that making college education more available is "the best investment we can make in our future." With the measures he has taken to this point, the President has demonstrated he means his words. Scholarships for moms are only a small part of the mission to help educate more people. If you're a potential student who wants to make education a priority, there are many chances for you to do so.
