I have been writing a newsletter for my school to keep in the habit of reading about the continuous changes so that I can stay on top of them and ensure that our families do as well. Now that I have retired I plan to keep doing so, both for my own edification and for my clients.
I agree that FAFSA simplification introduced new confusion, but all brand-new systems can’t be built overnight. Let’s consider how it all started: The “Simplification” was a pet project of Republican Senator Lamar Alexander who was retiring, and the Democrats graciously agreed with Republicans and approved it. Sen Alexander wanted “The Simplification” to have less than 40 questions, and as a parting gift, the FAFSA that has been updated each year for 40 years, was thrown out, the baby with the bath water. Such a new system did have its glitches and growing pains, especially in 2023-24. Amazingly, by 2024-25 it worked well. Students and contributors completed the form in record time. The colleges received their ISIRs and made awards with no delays. It’s unfortunate that the Department of Education is being tampered with when FAFSA is finally working!
Just a modest adjustment to one of your statements: the Supreme Court decision did not alter how students are permitted to represent their identities - in fact, the actual decision in fact encouraged students to represent their identities in their essays! The decision changed how colleges are allowed to consider students' identities in their admission decisions. The burden here is on the colleges, not on students.
What a tremendous contribution to your community!
I have been writing a newsletter for my school to keep in the habit of reading about the continuous changes so that I can stay on top of them and ensure that our families do as well. Now that I have retired I plan to keep doing so, both for my own edification and for my clients.
Mark, thanks so much. for this insightful piece.
I agree that FAFSA simplification introduced new confusion, but all brand-new systems can’t be built overnight. Let’s consider how it all started: The “Simplification” was a pet project of Republican Senator Lamar Alexander who was retiring, and the Democrats graciously agreed with Republicans and approved it. Sen Alexander wanted “The Simplification” to have less than 40 questions, and as a parting gift, the FAFSA that has been updated each year for 40 years, was thrown out, the baby with the bath water. Such a new system did have its glitches and growing pains, especially in 2023-24. Amazingly, by 2024-25 it worked well. Students and contributors completed the form in record time. The colleges received their ISIRs and made awards with no delays. It’s unfortunate that the Department of Education is being tampered with when FAFSA is finally working!
Working for long? The staff has been obliterated. The responsibility is changing department. And earmarked funds are being slashed.
Just a modest adjustment to one of your statements: the Supreme Court decision did not alter how students are permitted to represent their identities - in fact, the actual decision in fact encouraged students to represent their identities in their essays! The decision changed how colleges are allowed to consider students' identities in their admission decisions. The burden here is on the colleges, not on students.
Thank you Evelyn. I was indeed imprecise in my choice of words. I appreciate you for catching that!