Doing Away With Debt: Using Existing Resources to Ensure College Affordability for Low and Middle-Income Families

New York

EdTrust–New York is a statewide education policy and advocacy organization focused first and foremost on doing right by New York’s children. Although many organizations speak up for the adults employed by schools and colleges, we advocate for students, especially those whose needs and potential are often overlooked.

West

EdTrust–West is committed to dismantling the racial and economic barriers embedded in the California education system. Through our research and advocacy, EdTrust-West engages diverse communities dedicated to education equity and justice and increases political and public will to build an education system where students of color and multilingual learners, especially those experiencing poverty, will thrive.

Massachusetts

The Education Trust team in Massachusetts convenes and supports the Massachusetts Education Equity Partnership (MEEP), a collective effort of more than 20 social justice, civil rights and education organizations from across the Commonwealth working together to promote educational equity for historically underserved students in our state’s schools.

Higher Education

Doing Away With Debt: Using Existing Resources to Ensure College Affordability for Low and Middle-Income Families

February 14, 2013 by EdTrust

America has some of the finest colleges in the world, but the promise of higher education is realized by too few. The Ed Trust’s new report, “Doing Away With Debt: Using Existing Resources to Ensure College Affordability for Low and Middle Income Families,” suggests that for students who are willing to study, work, or serve their communities, the federal and state governments, along with their institutions, should make sure they can afford to go to college without the fear of crushing student loan debt.

Here’s what people are saying about “Doing Away With Debt“:

“Visionary. … A powerful conception of shared responsibility.”—Ronald Brownstein, National Journal

“Addresses the root causes of the debt-for-diploma system.” —Tamara Draut, author, Strapped: Why America’s 20- and 30-Somethings Can’t Get Ahead

“One of the most comprehensive and most thoughtful proposals [funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation].” —Robert Moran, American Association of State Colleges and Universities

“The words debt-free college are music to students’ ears.” —Rory O’Sullivan, Young Invincibles

“A contribution … that is much needed and long overdue.” —Travis Reindl, formerly with the National Governors Association

Full Report

Executive Summary

Infographic

Published: February 14, 2013

Who We Are

Midwest

New York

Tennessee

West

Louisiana

Texas

Washington

Massachusetts

Doing Away With Debt: Using Existing Resources to Ensure College Affordability for Low and Middle-Income Families