It’s hard to believe, but high school graduation has now come and gone. Our students have been working toward this moment for years, and after all their hard work, the long days and late nights, they have accomplished their goal of walking away with a high school diploma. This is an extraordinary time in someone’s life, and something that every graduate should be incredibly proud of. I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone who walked across that stage on this tremendous occasion.
Now, high school is never easy. Between work in the classroom, athletics, new friends and everything else that comes with being a young person, there’s a lot to handle. But we all know that the Class of 2022 had to deal with much more than that. Over the last couple years, the COVID-19 pandemic has thrown everyone’s lives for a loop. But one of the groups in our state that has been affected most significantly is our students. Between having to learn remotely from home for so long, then missing out on important moments and opportunities throughout high school, it hasn’t been easy. At times, it has challenged people in ways they may not have imagined. But despite it all, they made it. While I truly wish our students didn’t have to deal with the pandemic and all its difficulties, I have no doubt that they are stronger for going through it and have learned to hold their heads high and persevere.
So what comes next for these fine young adults? Well, many are likely preparing to head off to college this fall, whether it be out of state or here in Maine. Others may be preparing to enter the workforce and kick-start their careers. Some graduates may not be sure what comes next – and that’s OK. But as you and your families are considering your next steps, I wanted to make sure you were aware of a very exciting opportunity that you have before you: free community college here in Maine! That’s right – free college – something we’ve all been wanting to make a reality for a long time. This year in the Legislature, we were finally able to make it happen. Now, when you enroll as a full-time student at any of Maine’s great community colleges, you will have no tuition costs or fees. Maine students who graduated in 2020, 2021, and 2022, along with next year’s 2023 class, will qualify for this. To get more information on free community college or get started, visit www.mccs.me.edu/freecollege.
No one should ever have to forego a higher education because they can’t afford it, but we know that this is the case for many folks. In addition to providing free community college, we froze tuition at the University of Maine, so Mainers can continue counting on a quality, affordable state university. Additionally, we expanded the Opportunity Maine Tax Credit to help graduates pay off student loans. Together, these steps will help ensure that young adults can begin their journey in whatever field they desire, without having to worry about affording it.
To all of our 2022 graduates, congratulations once again on this amazing feat. I hope you are able to take time for yourself to celebrate and reflect on all you have overcome. In the Legislature, I will continue doing all I can to advocate on your behalf and support young people here in Maine, so there are ample opportunities for you, no matter what you want to do with your life.
As always, you can get in touch with me at Stacy.Brenner@legislature.maine.gov or (207) 287-1515.
Sen. Stacy Brenner, 207-287-1515, stacy.brenner@legislature.maine. gov. Representing Senate District 30, Gorham, part of Buxton, and part of Scarborough. She is the co-owner of Broadturn Farm in Scarborough and is a certified nurse-midwife. Aide: Evan Myers Evan.Myers@legislature.maine.gov.