A-B Tech Community College received continued funding from N.C. Community College System for childcare services, which provides subsidy assistance for parents who are students at A-B Tech. The award for the 2015-16 academic year is $41,208.
The college uses the funds to help remove barriers for students attending school by providing assistance with childcare expenses. The Child Care Assistance Program at A-B Tech is a need-based program determined by a student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Associate in Science student Kristin Werner finds the aid takes a huge burden off of her and her husband. “It doesn’t pay the full amount but it is a huge help. It keeps us from having to take out loans,” she said.
Kristin is planning on transfer after graduation to go to pharmacy school. She has two children, ages 3 and 10. While Kristin takes classes and studies and her husband is at work, the youngest is in preschool. “When I was applying at A-B Tech, I asked if there was any assistance,” she said. “It has taken away so much stress.”
“A-B Tech strives to do what’s best for our students,” said Dr. Terry Brasier, Vice President for Student Services. “Knowing that their children are in a safe environment while they are in class is important to their academic success.”
The college is assisting 15 students through the grant this year. Applications are generally received in August each year and those who qualify to receive a portion of the funds to be used throughout the school year. For more information about the program, contact Kim England at 828-398-7143.