BOSTON — Gov. Charlie Baker and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh have announced a tuition-free college program.
The Republican governor and the Democratic mayor on Monday launched the new college affordability program for Boston high school graduates, enabling low-income students to complete four-year degrees without paying tuition or mandatory fees.
The Boston Bridge program will be open to all 2017 high school graduates who live in the city.
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The commonwealth and the city say they'll cover students' tuition and fees. They'll take federal Pell grants into account.
Baker says college affordability "too often serves as a barrier" for students seeking degrees. He says the new program is intended to provide "more opportunities for a quality education."
We are making historic investments in public education, and finding ways to make it easier for families to save for college. #529day pic.twitter.com/ZOs8hmi92P
— Charlie Baker (@MassGovernor) May 30, 2017
Walsh says the partnership means "a free bachelor's degree is within reach" for low-income students.
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I was proud to sign into law the college savings tax deduction, and the number of new accounts has skyrocketed 65%. #529Day @MEFAtweets pic.twitter.com/GTlXFGiHc7
— Charlie Baker (@MassGovernor) May 30, 2017
Associated Press
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