(By Adam Andrzejewski, RealClear Wire) Boston Mayor Michelle Wu recently announced a new initiative providing $4 million in funding for a community college tuition assistance program that will be available to all residents, including undocumented immigrants — all using federal dollars.
In a recent press release, Wu touted the expansion of an existing program called the Tuition-Free Community College Plan, which, “covers the balance owed after financial aid and other funding has been applied and provides students with a stipend at six partner community colleges.” It also provides students a $250 stipend per semester for up to three years.
The expanded program will now pay off up to $2,500 of student loan debt if that debt is preventing a student from continuing their education at a Boston community college. It’s also being expanded to include students of all income levels, graduation years and immigration statuses.
Of the $4 million, $3 million comes from the federal American Rescue Plan Act and $1 million comes from federal Community Project Funding, secured by Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass.
The TFCC Plan has served over 1,000 students since 2016, or a little over 100 students per year.
If Boston really wanted to help students attend college, it would work with partner institutions to lower their tuition prices, ensuring students are getting a good value for their tuition. Instead, by selectively subsidizing students with government funds, it’s increasing the cost of education for everyone as bloated institutions reap the rewards.
