subject: Obama Scholarships For Mothers: A College Education Within Reach [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. One major part of the effort is to make available to students more free money for college.
For decades, college prices have steadily increased. College costs can really add up especially when money for things besides tuition and housing is considered. Many young adults choose to forgo college because of the cost. Working, single mothers are particularly hit hard. Educating women and single moms is important to increase the workforce and help provide for children and families. It's important to the President and that's why he's implemented a program for scholarships for mothers. Although they are the same, many people refer to Federal Pell grants as Obama grants. With these grants, college-bound students can receive over $5,000 to pay for school. This is over $1,000 above the previous maximum, and it's a big help to moms who want to return to school. With these grants for moms, they can pay for tuition, books or any other school-related expenses.
Another incentive to consider 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. There are almost no restrictions on where and what a student studies. With more incentives, more ambitious adults will realize their goal to get a college degree.
Increasing educational opportunity and performance is undoubtedly one of the President's goals. With some changes to the lending system, many graduate and undergraduate loans will be less costly. The administration is also focusing on improving the performance of schools at all levels. 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. 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.