Proposal to Change TOPS Rejected

AP reports that a Louisiana commission on streamlining higher education rejected a recommendation to change TOPS. The suggestion was to cap the program and direct more funds to need-based aid. The sponsor of the proposal, Daved longanecker apparently points out the program is something "all the white folks get."

The article indicates an analysis by The Advocate indicates that 38% of the TOPS students come from homes earning at least $100,000 per year. To me, this fact is irrelevant.

On this one, I concur with the rejection of this proposal.

Instead, I would much prefer to see more emphasis in our community on competing for TOPS benefits rather than changing the rules.

Now to be sure, if blacks start earning most of that TOPS money, you can be sure the rules will be changed. But, let's first compete for the dollars no different than we compete for athletic scholarships.

Academic Excellence must become at least as important, if not more so, than Athletic Excellence.

Financial Aid

As the cost of a college education continues to rise, it becomes critical for students and parents to access as much information as possible regarding potential aid. The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOSFA) is a great resource. There you can find solid information about financial strategies for college.

The Tuition Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) is one such possibility for completing college in Louisiana. However, you must know and understand the requirements to properly prepare for the chance to compete. Again, detailed information on this program is provided at the LOSFA site.

LOSFA can be accessed at http://www.osfa.state.la.us. See the link from this site and be sure to share this information with a friend. Good luck.