subject: Obama Grants: Putting Education First [print this page] For many people, a bright future starts with good education. Even before he became President, Barack Obama spoke about the need to make education a priority. Many important people are focused on increasing scholarship opportunities and improving education.
One familiar part of the economic meltdown is the rise in college tuition and other costs. Schools don't offer scholarships to ever student to cover necessary expenses. Low-income students suffer the most if they are unable to secure enough scholarship or grant money. Working, single mothers are particularly hit hard. Helping single mothers get an education helps their families and future employers. More scholarships for single moms is one way to improve the situation. Federal Pell Grants have now been fondly called Obama grants. To help with university costs, a student can earn more than $5,000. The primary goal is to encourage single moms to return to school, and by 2012 they could receive as much as $5,400. Working mothers can pay for tuition and books or even daycare if that allows them to attend school.
Another worthwhile program is the American Opportunity Tax Credit. With this tax credit, the first $4,000 of college expenses are free. This $4,000 write off can be a big help to many students. Both of these tax programs help single moms tremendously because they are traditionally low-income individuals. Study options are wide open. 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. With some changes to the lending system, many graduate and undergraduate loans will be less costly. 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 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 has shown a good effort to support his words through action. Scholarships for moms are only a small part of the mission to help educate more people. Traditional and non-traditional students alike have numerous opportunities to put their education first.
