MOTTO has called on our leaders to closely look at access &  cost of higher education, particularly for lower income families.  MOTTO has gone so far as to challenge our legislature to tell us what is higher educations'  'public mission'. 

Recently, "Measuring Up: The National Report Card on Higher Education" released its report.  Montana scored poorly on accessibility & affordabilty, most notably an "F" on affordability.

The chart above shows 4 years of college in Montana cost 75% of a low income families income, vs 26% of a middle income family and 11% of a high income families income. (notice the disparity for the lower income bracket increase a whopping 25%) 

A public education system should not and cannot condone the loss of opportunity & access to a higher education.  An examination of access and affordabilty must take place during this next legislative session. This process should include short and long term strategies.