Saving for education expenses in Montana just got more affordable
Saving for education expenses in Montana just got more affordable KTVH
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Saving for Education Expenses in Montana Becomes More Affordable
HELENA — Achieve Montana has announced a significant reduction in fees, resulting in a 28% drop, thanks to its ongoing partnership with Ascensus. This development aims to make saving for education expenses more affordable for Montanans.
Achieve Montana: A Tax-Advantaged Savings Program
Achieve Montana is a tax-advantaged savings program that facilitates individuals in paying for education-related expenses through a 529 plan. These plans, which are state-sponsored, can be established for beneficiaries such as children or grandchildren. They cover various costs, including tuition, fees, books, and room and board.
Expanding the Scope of 529 Plans
Contrary to popular belief, 529 plans are not limited to college education. In addition to being eligible for use at two and four-year universities, the funds can also be utilized for qualifying K-12 education expenses, trade schools, apprenticeships, technical training, and even certain education loan repayments.
Emphasizing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations. By making education more affordable and accessible, Achieve Montana contributes to:
- SDG 4: Quality Education – Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Reducing inequalities within and among countries, including promoting social, economic, and political inclusion of all.
By supporting education at all levels and reducing financial barriers, Achieve Montana contributes to the overall development and well-being of individuals and communities in Montana.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 4: Quality Education
The article discusses Achieve Montana, a savings program that helps individuals pay for education-related expenses. This aligns with SDG 4, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes.
- Target 4.3: By 2030, ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education, including university.
The article mentions that Achieve Montana’s savings program can be used for various education-related expenses, including K-12 education, trade schools, apprenticeships, technical training, and education loan repayments. This indicates progress towards targets 4.1 and 4.3, which aim to provide accessible and affordable education opportunities for all individuals.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator 4.1.1: Proportion of children and young people (a) in grades 2/3; (b) at the end of primary; and (c) at the end of lower secondary achieving at least a minimum proficiency level in (i) reading and (ii) mathematics, by sex.
- Indicator 4.3.1: Participation rate of youth and adults in formal and non-formal education and training in the previous 12 months, by sex.
The article does not explicitly mention specific indicators. However, the mentioned targets can be measured using indicators such as the proportion of children and young people achieving minimum proficiency levels in reading and mathematics (indicator 4.1.1) and the participation rate of youth and adults in education and training (indicator 4.3.1).
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 4: Quality Education | Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes. | Indicator 4.1.1: Proportion of children and young people (a) in grades 2/3; (b) at the end of primary; and (c) at the end of lower secondary achieving at least a minimum proficiency level in (i) reading and (ii) mathematics, by sex. |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | Target 4.3: By 2030, ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education, including university. | Indicator 4.3.1: Participation rate of youth and adults in formal and non-formal education and training in the previous 12 months, by sex. |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: ktvh.com
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