subject: There's Money to Help You Attend College [print this page] Education is always an important key to a good future. The President has on many occasions emphasized the need for a strong education system. 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. Unfortunately some students turn away from higher education because it's too expensive. 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. It's important to the President and that's why he's implemented a program for scholarships for mothers. 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 over $1,000 above the previous maximum, and it's a big help to moms who want to return to school. These grants can be used to cover many of the miscellaneous college expenses. Another worthwhile program is the American Opportunity Tax Credit. With this tax program, the first $4,000 of community college or university expenses are free. At less expensive schools in particular this is a big credit. Since many single working mothers have low incomes, these programs are a major help. There are plenty of options on where, when and what a student can study. 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. There is also emphasis on ways to improve school and student achievement in all areas. There is also emphasis on encouraging more students to consider community college. To attend a 2-year college has a number of benefits, including saving money and learning a trade or 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." With the measures he has taken to this point, the President has demonstrated he means 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.
