subject: An Investment for Our Future: Obama Scholarships for Moms [print this page] An Investment for Our Future: Obama Scholarships for Moms
Taking advantage of educational opportunities is a smart way to be successful. 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. Although the economy has dramatically fallen, college prices have continued to rise for many years. Besides tuition and housing, fees for books, travel and eating are often not covered. With high costs looming, many young adults can't afford to go to a university. One group that is particularly hit hard is single mothers. Not only does educating mothers help provide for their families, but it also improves the workforce. Creating college grants for moms is one way the President is dealing with this issue. Because of his efforts many people now refer to Federal Pell Grants as Obama grants. In the 2009-2010 school year, students could get a grant of up to $5,350. This is an increase of $1,000 over the previous maximum, and the goal is to help working mothers return to school. Tuition, books, travel and school supplies are all expenses that students can cover with grant money. Single moms should also consider the American Opportunity Tax Credit. With this tax credit, the first $4,000 of college expenses are free. At less expensive schools in particular this is a big credit. A grant and a tax break could be just the thing to help students like working single moms. Another great factor is that students aren't particularly targeted based on what or where they study. Diversity is encouraged. Now the expenses are just a little lighter, and eager mothers can enroll in school. Making more efforts to improve education opportunities is the best way for President Obama to show that he values them. The stimulus plan that passed has some provisions to make the college loan process easier. 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 2007 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." The President has shown a good effort to support his words through action. 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.
