One out of every five college students are parents, and states are recognizing the importance of helping this group succeed in completing their degrees. Supporting parenting students has numerous benefits, including ensuring economic security for the whole family.
Various states are implementing measures to assist parenting students in their academic journey. California and Texas have passed legislation providing parenting students with priority registration for classes. Texas also requires schools to designate liaisons to connect parenting students with resources.
Maryland introduced a bill to gather data on parenting students, following Washington's lead in enacting similar laws. Pennsylvania launched a grant program to fund colleges in supporting parenting students, emphasizing the need for diverse learners to receive necessary support.
The Parent Pathways Grant Program in Pennsylvania aims to help students balance academic and family responsibilities. Former parenting students highlighted challenges such as eligibility criteria for public benefit programs and the lack of adequate support for educational success.
Despite efforts by states, more support is needed for parenting students to thrive in college. Institutions must adapt to cater to the needs of older students and those with children to overcome future enrollment challenges.
