subject: An Investment for Our Future: Obama Grants for Moms [print this page] An Investment for Our Future: Obama Grants for Moms
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. One major part of the effort is to make available to students more free money for college. Expenses like college tuition and housing grow even as the economy suffers. College costs can really add up especially when money for things besides tuition and housing is considered. Unfortunately some students turn away from higher education because it's too expensive. One group that is particularly hit hard is single mothers. Educating women and single moms is important to increase the workforce and help provide for children and families. More scholarships for single moms is one way to improve the situation. Because of his efforts many people now refer to Federal Pell Grants as Obama grants. With these grants, college-bound students can receive over $5,000 to pay for school. Before Pell grants maxed out at about $4,000. With these grants for moms, they can pay for tuition, books or any other 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. Study options are wide open. Moms and students of all kinds can go to school with a little less to worry about. With his actions President Obama has confirmed his belief in this issue. The new stimulus package has some benefits for potential college students. There is also emphasis on ways to improve school and student achievement in all areas. Another goal is to encourage more students to attend community colleges. Community college is important to prepare students for a 4-year college but also to prepare them for a 2-year degree or technical skill. 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." The President's actions are reflecting his words. Even though Obama's grants for moms get much attention they are certainly not the only important opportunity being offered. Traditional and non-traditional students alike have numerous opportunities to put their education first.
