During this difficult economy, debts are increasing while work is less available. As working mothers, it is nearly impossible to make an income that allows to cover expenses when you work in a human service career. As educators and counselors, school counselors are not given the same state and federal aid as teachers even though we are part of the teacher's union, require more education and expense to obtain a position, and participate in the leadership of school environments.
To alleviate the ongoing financial stress of graduate student loans or teacher grants (IE: school counselors do not qualify for the T.E.A.C.H. grant), we believe that working mothers should be granted funds for graduate education rather than loans. Expenses for middle-class families prevent furthering an education.