subject: Putting Education First [print this page] If you want to be successful, getting a good education is a good start. 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.
Although the economy has dramatically fallen, college prices have continued to rise for many years. Besides tuition and housing, fees for books, travel and eating are often not covered. Many potential students suffer and are unable to afford to go to college. Single moms are especially affected in a bad way. To put more educated minds in the workforce and ensure that families are cared for, it's important to educate moms. The President believes in this and has begun a mission to create scholarships for moms. If you've heard of Obama grants for moms, know that people are referring to Federal Pell 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. 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. The $4,000 grant is especially great for low-income students. Single moms often fall into this group, so these programs are particularly beneficial to them. Another great factor is that students aren't particularly targeted based on what or where they study. Diversity is encouraged. Now the expenses are just a little lighter, and eager mothers can enroll in school.
Obama's efforts to improve education show that he takes this issue seriously. 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. 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 2007 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." The President's actions are reflecting his words. Scholarships for moms are only a small part of the mission to help educate more people. If you're a potential student who wants to make education a priority, there are many chances for you to do so.
