Wilmington, Del. —Congressman John Carney (D-DE) visited Dover High School this morning to announce his plans to introduce the Higher Education Savings Accounts Act.  The legislation would form a pilot study creating individualized education savings accounts for eligible high school students within the Pell grant program. Congressman Carney was joined at the announcement by students and distinguished guests, including Dr. Dan Shelton, superintendent of the Capital School District, Dr. Courtney Voshell, principal of Dover High School, Dr. Harry Williams, president of Delaware State University, and Bob Clark, president of Wesley College.

 

“Education beyond the high school level is more important now than ever before.  But, the rising cost of higher education is a huge barrier for students looking to get that additional training,” said Congressman Carney. “While the federal government provides billions of dollars in student aid, many students and their families remain unaware of these benefits until it is too late. This legislation is geared toward preparing students early on, and giving them the incentive and the opportunity to be successful after graduation.”    

 

Currently, notification for much of the aid to low income students occurs at the end of their high school career, when it is too late to make decisions that affect their higher education.  The Higher Education Savings Account program would show students the investment that their government is willing to make in them, earlier in their high school careers. By doing so, it creates an incentive for students to take courses and make decisions in high school that will lead to success in college or a career. The program would also provide additional support and information to those students facing the greatest challenges in accessing higher education. To learn more about the legislation, see a one-page summary here.

 

Dr. Dan Shelton, superintendent of the Capital School District, said “It is critical that we do everything we can to help every student access higher education. We want to ensure that students are able to plan for their future by giving them the skills and resources needed to succeed in college and in a career. I am very encouraged by Congressman Carney’s new proposal, which I believe will become an important part of our ability to help our students reach their highest potential in college and beyond.”   

  

“Investing in students is one of the best things we can do right now to create a stronger economy and a better future for our state and nation,” said Congressman Carney. “I believe that this bill will make a major difference in improving outcomes for the students who need it most.” 

 

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