Tell ACE to Support College Moms!

Dear American Council on Education,

We, the undersigned, are writing to urge you to take action to ensure that college mothers receive the support and resources they need to succeed in both their educational and personal lives. Being a mother while pursuing a higher education can be an incredibly challenging balancing act, and many college moms face unique obstacles that hinder their academic and professional success. It is crucial that we create an environment where these students can thrive, complete their degrees, and achieve their full potential.

Mothers who attend college should not have to choose between their education and their families. With the right support systems, college moms can excel academically while fulfilling their responsibilities as caregivers. We believe it is time to take meaningful steps toward improving access to resources and opportunities for these dedicated students.

We respectfully request that the American Council on Education take the following actions:

1. Expand Access to Affordable and On-Campus Childcare: One of the biggest challenges for college mothers is access to affordable and convenient childcare. We urge the American Council on Education to work with colleges and universities to increase funding for on-campus childcare centers and provide greater availability of childcare services for student-parents. This will help ensure that mothers can attend classes, study, and engage in campus activities without worrying about the well-being of their children.
2. Provide Flexible Class Schedules and Online Learning Options: College moms often face the challenge of juggling class schedules with childcare responsibilities. We ask that you encourage institutions to offer more flexible class schedules, including evening, weekend, and hybrid learning options, as well as robust online courses. These alternatives will allow mothers to balance their educational goals with their family responsibilities, making it easier to attend classes and participate in coursework.
3. Offer Financial Aid and Scholarships Specifically for Student Mothers: Many college moms face financial hardships while pursuing their degrees. We ask that the American Council on Education advocate for more financial aid programs, scholarships, and grants specifically aimed at helping mothers who are attending college. Financial support tailored to the unique needs of college moms will alleviate some of the financial burdens they face, allowing them to focus on their education without compromising their family’s well-being.
4. Create Dedicated Support Networks for College Moms: College moms often experience feelings of isolation or difficulty navigating campus life while balancing family responsibilities. We call for the establishment of dedicated support networks, mentorship programs, and counseling services for student mothers. These resources will provide the emotional, academic, and social support needed for college moms to succeed. A supportive community will help alleviate stress and foster a sense of belonging.
5. Improve Access to Health and Wellness Services: College moms, like all students, need access to comprehensive health and wellness services. We request that the American Council on Education encourage colleges and universities to provide health insurance, mental health services, and wellness programs specifically designed for student-parents. This will help ensure that mothers can maintain their well-being while balancing the demands of education and parenting.
6. Promote Policies to Support Work-Life Balance: Many college moms are working part-time or full-time jobs while attending school. We ask for policies that encourage institutions to support work-life balance for student parents. This includes more opportunities for paid internships, flexible work-study programs, and partnerships with local businesses that offer family-friendly work options.

In conclusion, we respectfully ask the American Council on Education to advocate for the creation of a more supportive and inclusive environment for college mothers. By addressing the unique challenges they face, we can help empower them to succeed in their education and in their roles as parents. Ensuring that college moms have the resources, flexibility, and support they need will strengthen the higher education system and benefit the entire nation.

Sincerely,

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