Legislation to Make College More Accessible to Students at Low-Income Schools

Press Release

Congressman Vernon J. Ehlers (R-MI), along with Assistant Senate Majority Leader Dick Durbin (D-IL), Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) and Congressman Tim Bishop (D-NY), introduced bipartisan legislation today to help improve college access for low-income students. The Pathways to College Act would create a competitive grant program to help low-income school districts implement programs designed to increase the number of students who are entering and succeeding in college.

"A college degree is one of the single greatest assets a young person can obtain to set them on a successful career path," said Ehlers, a former educator. "A college education gives students the skills they need for today's jobs, and for the jobs of the future. Too many students are missing out on that opportunity, and this bill will help more students find success in higher education, and in their lives."

"America's leadership in the global economy has always depended on the achievements and abilities of each generation of students. Today American students need to know more than ever to stay ahead," said Bishop, a member of the House Education and Labor Committee. "This legislation will enable more students to successfully achieve college degrees, so America can continue to be a world leader for generations to come."

"When schools focus on college and provide the tools to get there, students make the connection between the work they are doing now and their future goals," said Durbin. "Students in those schools are more likely enroll in college and more likely to be prepared for college when they arrive. Bright, hardworking students deserve the opportunity to go as far as their talents will take them. Our bill tries to ensure that lack of information never prevents a student from achieving his or her college dream."

"For our country to be competitive in the global economy, it is vital that today's students have all the tools they need to gain a college education," Burr said. "The Pathways to College Act will help ensure that all of our students have access to the information and resources needed, including college counselors to help them with applying to college and making sense of the complex financial aid process, to make attending college a realizable goal. Quality access and preparation programs contribute to success at every level, and I am hopeful this bill will be another step in building a strong foundation for tomorrow's workforce."