subject: Obama Scholarships Help Put Education First [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. Free money through grants and scholarships is only the beginning.
College expenses continue to increase even as the economy slumps. Schools don't offer scholarships to ever student to cover necessary expenses. Unfortunately some students turn away from higher education because it's too expensive. One group that is particularly hit hard is single mothers. To put more educated minds in the workforce and ensure that families are cared for, it's important to educate moms. 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. Currently students can earn about $5,350 through a Pell grant. For mothers and other students, this is increase of available money is valuable help. 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. Under this incentive program, education costs up to $4,000 are cleared. This is a worthy incentive, especially for schools that are less expensive. Both of these tax programs help single moms tremendously because they are traditionally low-income individuals. There are plenty of options on where, when and what a student can study. Taking away a little of the financial burden of college is a helpful way to get more students enrolled.
Increasing educational opportunity and performance is undoubtedly one of the President's goals. 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. Since many overlook community colleges, there is emphasis on increasing their effectiveness and appeal. A 2-year degree or the time spent learning a technical school from a community college can be a tremendous asset.
In his 2007 Reclaiming the American Dream speech, 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." So far Obama's actions are backing up 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.
