subject: Education: Top Priority [print this page] Education: Top Priority Education: Top Priority
For many people, a bright future starts with good education. President Obama is a good example, and he has shown his commitment to helping others. Scholarships and grants are only a small part of the education system makeover. For decades, college prices have steadily increased. College costs can really add up especially when money for things besides tuition and housing is considered. Low-income students suffer the most if they are unable to secure enough scholarship or grant money. Working, single mothers are particularly hit hard. Helping single mothers get an education helps their families and future employers. The President believes in this and has begun a mission to create scholarships for moms. Federal Pell Grants have now been fondly called Obama grants. To help with university costs, a student can earn more than $5,000. For mothers and other students, this is increase of available money is valuable help. These grants can be used to cover many of the miscellaneous college expenses. There's also another great program: the American Opportunity Tax Credit. This program allows the first $4,000 of education expenses to be free. This is a worthy incentive, especially for schools that are less expensive. Single moms often fall into this group, so these programs are particularly beneficial to them. There are almost no restrictions on where and what a student studies. With a few less money worries, more single mothers can attend college. Making more efforts to improve education opportunities is the best way for President Obama to show that he values them. 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. To attend a 2-year college has a number of benefits, including saving money and learning a trade or skill. "We need to put a college education within reach of every American. That's the best investment we can make in our future." Those are the words of President Obama in his 2007 speech Reclaiming the American Dream. So far Obama's actions are backing up his words. The mission to educate all Americans is certainly helped by providing scholarships for mothers. Traditional and non-traditional students alike have numerous opportunities to put their education first.
