Pursuing a degree is a challenging endeavor, especially for parents, who represent about 22% of the undergraduate population. Balancing college coursework, assignments, and studying alongside child-rearing requires not just commitment but also remarkable ingenuity. One significant aspect they must navigate is securing and managing childcare during their school hours. This responsibility can often feel daunting, but the aspiration for a brighter future motivates many to persevere.
Unfortunately, recent budget proposals from the Trump administration threaten to amplify these already substantial obstacles. A vital resource for many student parents—the Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) program—now faces the risk of complete elimination.
CCAMPIS, founded in 1998, was designed to assist low-income parents in achieving higher education by offering essential childcare services on campus. With an annual budget of about $75 million, the program primarily benefits women, particularly women of color, who frequently confront systemic barriers to education. During the 2016-2017 academic year, CCAMPIS supported roughly 3,300 students. However, demand remains high, with approximately 4,000 children on the waiting list.
The Trump administration’s budget plan categorizes this crucial program as “unaffordable and duplicative.” The alternative proposed involves redirecting funds to the Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG). Although this program is accessible, it is important to note that its administration varies by state, allowing each state to set its own eligibility criteria, which can create additional obstacles for individuals who would have qualified for CCAMPIS.
The repercussions of this potential funding cut extend beyond childcare alone. The budget proposal also suggests deep reductions in higher education funding, including the phasing out of federal Direct Subsidized student loans and considerable cuts to Pell Grants. Collectively, these changes could significantly hinder the ability of low-income families to pursue and finance a college education.
Education has historically been recognized as a crucial means of breaking the cycle of poverty. Research indicates that degree holders typically enjoy improved job opportunities and higher lifetime earnings. Nevertheless, systemic inequities continue to widen the gap between low-income graduates and their wealthier counterparts. For those who do earn degrees, however, the chances for upward mobility increase significantly.
Now more than ever, it’s imperative to raise the voices of student parents and advocate for programs like CCAMPIS, which play a crucial role in helping them meet their educational aspirations. The difficulties of managing school, work, and parenting are very real, and protecting the resources that facilitate their journeys is vital for promoting a more equitable educational environment.
Navigating the intricacies of higher education while being a parent is no easy feat, but many families remain dedicated to this path. We must collectively ensure that these parents receive the necessary support to thrive.
