Back to School Once More

It's mid August...time to check the school calendar! My girls are going back next week, one to St Peter's and another to St Teresa's Academy. This is a special year, as my older daughter begins her senior year and my younger daughter finishes grade school. Lots of graduation parties next May!

This year we are researching colleges for Erin. Along with real estate, the cost and value of a college education is very much in the news these days. I have watched other parents prep their kids for years to get into a 'name brand' school: the sports teams, the volunteer work, the honors classes, summer projects and hobby club participation. There are visits to Notre Dame, Tulane, Boston University, University of California, Marquette. What an incredible opportunity those students have -- going to a nationally known school with a prestiguios reputation.

Choosing a college for my daughter, who wants to be a teacher, will be primarily based on what we can afford without going into debt. There are many excellent state MO schools that offer teaching degrees. As much as Erin would like to go 'far away' to a nationally ranked school, the only way that would happen is with substantial scholarships. We are emphasising to her that 'one day you will thank us' for graduating from college with no debt! That is, if the stock market becomes stable in a year...

I believe a college education is what you make it..and often the smaller schools offer more mentoring, smaller classes, a stronger circle of close friends and a more focused education. Where ever Erin ends up, I know she will apply herself and become an excellent school teacher.