ROSY | Life with Rose Colors

For many people, a bright future starts with good education. President Obama is a good example, and he has shown his commitment to helping others. Many important people are focused on increasing scholarship opportunities and improving education. Although the economy has dramatically fallen, college prices have continued to rise for many years. College costs can really add up especially when money for things besides tuition and housing is considered. With high costs looming, many young adults can't afford to go to a university. Single, working moms are a big section of this group. To put more educated minds in the workforce and ensure that families are cared for, it's important to educate moms. 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. 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. With these grants for moms, they can pay for tuition, books or any other school-related expenses. There's also another great program: the American Opportunity Tax Credit. With this tax credit, the first $4,000 of college expenses are free. At less expensive schools in particular this is a big credit. A grant for a working mother as well as a tax credit can help fund much-appreciated educational advancement. 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. Making more efforts to improve education opportunities is the best way for President Obama to show that he values them. The new stimulus package has some benefits for potential college students. The administration is also focusing on improving the performance of schools at all levels. There is also emphasis on encouraging more students to consider community college. To attend a 2-year college has a number of benefits, including saving money and learning a trade or skill. "We need to put a college education within reach of every American. That's the best investment we can make in our future." Those are the words of President Obama in his 2007 speech Reclaiming the American Dream. So far Obama's actions are backing up his words. Even though Obama's grants for moms get much attention they are certainly not the only important opportunity being offered. Traditional and non-traditional students alike have numerous opportunities to put their education first.