subject: Putting Education First for Single, Working Moms [print this page] It's widely accepted that education is important to having a successful future. The President has on many occasions emphasized the need for a strong education system. Free money through grants and scholarships is only the beginning. One familiar part of the economic meltdown is the rise in college tuition and other costs. Tuition and housing costs often far exceed scholarship offers. Low-income students suffer the most if they are unable to secure enough scholarship or grant money. A large number of these people are working mothers. Not only does educating mothers help provide for their families, but it also improves the workforce. The President has attempted to help by encouraging more grants for single mothers to attend school. If you've heard of Obama grants for moms, know that people are referring to Federal Pell Grants. Currently students can earn about $5,350 through a Pell grant. This is an increase of $1,000 over the previous maximum, and the goal is to help working mothers return to school. Working mothers can pay for tuition and books or even daycare if that allows them to attend school. The American Opportunity Tax Credit is also a very valuable program. With this tax program, the first $4,000 of community college or university expenses are free. Especially for less expensive schools, $4,000 could be a significant help for a student. 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. With a few less money worries, more single mothers can attend college. The President has demonstrated that he considers this issue a priority. The new stimulus package has some benefits for potential college students. In addition, the government is focusing on helping schools improve teaching and students improve performance. Higher education at a 2-year college can be a great option, and there is emphasis being put on that fact. Community colleges are more than a stepping stone on the way to a university. They are valuable institutions. In his Reclaiming the American Dream speech in 2007, Obama said, "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. Grants for moms are just a small but vital part of the education mission. Traditional and non-traditional students alike have numerous opportunities to put their education first.
