Proposal would aid first-generation students

     AUGUSTA – Rep. Patricia Sutherland, D-Chapman, has proposed a bill to aid first-generation college students.
    “This bill creates opportunities,” said Sutherland.  “I feel so discouraged when I see access to college denied to anyone because it just doesn’t fit in the budget – education is too important.”
    College applicants will be eligible to receive aid under this bill if they are the first in their family to attend college. The funding will be available to nontraditional students as well as recent high school graduates. 
    A 2005 study showed that Mainers age 25 and over who hold an advanced degree make up only 34.7 percent of the population, up only 3.5 percent from 2000. The rest of New England has been close to 40 percent.
    “Aroostook County can really benefit from this program, not only in educational opportunities but also in terms of economic growth and job creation,” said Sutherland, “My plan is that funding for the program will come from racino revenues targeted for scholarship assistance.”
    The request must pass Legislative Council later this month in order to be considered during the second session of the 123rd Legislature.