Some Talking Points

Hello, my name is _______________________ and I am a student at the University of Alaska.  I’m calling to ask for your support of HB 397 and HB 403, the Alaska Achievers Incentive Program (AAIP).

This is a student led effort.  These bills were originally authored and championed by students and that speaks to their importance.

Already Existing Research shows that AAIP will make a difference.  We know from existing research that a $1,000 reduction in the cost of a college education can boost enrollment by nine percent.  But we also know that a $160 increase in the cost of attendance can drop undergraduate enrollment by .5% and community college enrollment by 2.3%. 

Our peers are dropping out because they cannot afford the education, not because of grades or the quality of the programs.  A survey performed by the University of Alaska Southeast found that the number two reason why students were dropping out was because they couldn't afford to continue their education.  The number one reason was family problems.

For students approaching their high school graduation, the cost of a higher education is the most important topic discussed by the student and the family.  It is a real shame that students do not move on to higher learning because of the cost.

For many young people, college is perceived as out of their reach.  It has also been shown that the growing cost of an education is changing the perception of affordability among our elementary and middle school students and their parents.  It is at these ages that students really decide whether college will be something within their reach.

Our state’s economy is growing and there are incredible jobs waiting for graduates with the necessary education and training, which is why we must be focused on expanding access to higher education.

Too many students are not graduating from high school.  The 3.0 GPA requirement acts as an incentive for students to work a little harder, because if they do, there is a promise ofa college education.

The program would provide assistance to students who earn a 3.0 high school GPA and demonstrate unmet financial need.

The bill has been sent to the Health, Education, and Social Services Committee (HES) which may not give the opportunity for a hearing on this bill.

Can we count on your support for HB 397 and HB 403?

Thank you for your time.