The National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education recently revealed the results
of a study: How Parents and the Public Look at Higher Education Today. It is reported that “There has been a dramatic growth in the perception that college is not only important but is absolutely essential for success in today’s economy.” The number of Americans who believe that higher education is essential for a decent job in American Society has jumped from 31% in 2000 to 50% in 2007.
The cost of a college education grows at a dramatic rate, however. The majority of Americans (59%) believe college prices are rising as fast or faster than health care. While money for college can be borrowed, 78% of Americans believe that students have to pay too much money in order to attend college. Although 86% say that someone willing to make enough sacrifices can go to college, most (62%) also believe that many qualified individuals do not have access to higher education.
Minority parents voice a grave concern about these costs. While 62% of them believe that a college degree is necessary, 74% of qualified and motivated students will not have the opportunity to attend.
LAHS educators are frustrated by an economy that so seriously limits college opportunity. We hope to considerably increase financial support for students not only though direct contribution but though public events designed for building scholarship funds. These efforts require many hours of work and organization consequently such events are yet a few months away. However, we are committed to assisting families in the cost of education so that our students may one day have a college degree.
In closing, of course we would appreciate your support. We seek sponsors, contributors and individuals who can work with our staff in organizing public events such as races in order to increase our scholarship fund. Direct contributions can be made to the “Ken Green Scholarship Fund” for immediate use (mail to Carl Babb, LAHS, 201 Almond Avenue, Los Altos, CA. 94022 ) Expressed interest in working at future events can be communicated to carl.babb@mvla.net.
Carl Babb, LAHS Instructor
