It’s widely accepted that education is important to having a successful future. Since his campaign to become President, Barack Obama has made education a key issue. Scholarships and grants are only a small part of the education system makeover.

Expenses like college tuition and housing grow even as the economy suffers. Scholarship packages rarely cover the full amount for tuition, books and housing. Unfortunately some students turn away from higher education because it’s too expensive. A large number of these people are working mothers. Educating women and single moms is important to increase the workforce and help provide for children and families. Creating college grants for moms is one way the President is dealing with this issue. Federal Pell Grants have now been fondly called 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. Tuition, books, travel and school supplies are all expenses that students can cover with grant money.

Another incentive to consider is the American Opportunity Tax Credit. This tax credit makes a way for students to write off the first $4,000 of their education costs. 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 almost no restrictions on where and what a student studies. Taking away a little of the financial burden of college is a helpful way to get more students enrolled.

With his actions President Obama has confirmed his belief in this issue. With the recent passage of the economic stimulus plan, a lot of college loans will be offered by the government. In addition, the government is focusing on helping schools improve teaching and students improve performance. There is also emphasis on encouraging more students to consider community college. At a community college students can gain important knowledge as well as save money.

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.” The President has shown a good effort to support his words through action. 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.

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