Skip to Content

Proposed Plan: Affording College Costs With Community Service

Cathedral City High School Senior Liliana Ortega is set on attending Cal Berkley next year, but that may not happen because college tuition is too high.

“One of the main reasons I may not go to Berkley is the cost,” she said. “My family can’t afford it.”

Her classmate Oscar Jimenez is facing the same situation. His college dreams seem to be fading.

“Maybe college isn’t in my future,” he said defeatingly.

Many families can’t afford a college education. Students hope financial aid, loans, and scholarships will pay the bill.

“I’m trying to get financial aid and I got a job to help,” said Sabrina Salvatierra, another Cathedral City High School student.

President Obama wants to make college affordable for all. He also wants to increase community service. His student service plan incorporates both ideas.

The plan creates a new American Opportunity Tax Credit worth $4,000. In order to get this money, future students must complete 100 hours of public service in a year.

“I think it’s a smart move,” said CCHS student JesseSalas.”It will help everyone in the community.”

The tax credit covers two-thirds the cost of tuition at the average college or university and it makes community college tuition completely free for most. The paid community service translates to a $40 dollar an hour job. Local students say they’ll do whatever it takes for a brighter future and community.

For more information on President Obama’s education plan visit http://www.barackobama.com/issues/education/.

Article Topic Follows: News

Jump to comments ↓

KESQ News Team

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

News Channel 3 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content