President Barack Obama gave the annual State of the Union Address where he covered topics from education to foreign policies and students at Animo Pat Brown are excited about the changes and proposals.
EDUCATION
Obama proposed new rules that would not allow any students to drop out before they are 18.
“When students are not allowed to drop out, they do better,” Obama said.
Although students like Junior Valentina Espericueta thinks Obama’s proposal is “a great idea,” this will have no affect in California since the law already states that all students have to be 18 years old to leave high school.
“I think students will feel compelled to graduate. It might not seem like the best idea to some, but it really is a good idea. I believe his proposal will highly benefit the nation.” Valentina said.
Obama also suggested a plan lower tuition rates by increasing Work-Study jobs.
“Extend the tuition tax credit we started that saves millions of middle-class families thousands of dollars, and give more young people the chance to earn their way through college by doubling the number of work-study jobs in the next five years.”
Work-study jobs are part-time jobs where you work for the school or university and you get paid in grants for the school.
This new proposal will affect APB students since they will be applying to colleges soon.
“I think it’d help a lot of us out, not everyone can get financial aid, or afford four years worth of tuition,” sophomore Reny Carrillo said, “Stopping the raising of tuition would really help students out.
IMMIGRATION
Obama also spoke about his Immigration policy. He discussed how since he took office “there are fewer illegal crossings.”
“Let’s at least agree to stop expelling responsible young people who want to staff our labs, start new businesses, defend this country.” Obama said, “Send me a law that gives them the chance to earn their citizenship. I will sign it right away.”
APB junior Cruz Contreras, said he believes Obamas plan is, “Amazing.”
“I agree with this because those that are willing to change our country for the better deserve to be a part of our country.” Cruz said.
FOREIGN POLICY
Obama opened and closed his speech by talking about foreign policy
“For the first time in two decades, Osama bin Laden is not a threat to this country,” Obama said to roaring applause.
The topic then turned over to foreign affairs. He talked about his plans on stopping the counterfit market in the United States.
“Tonight, I’m announcing the creation of a Trade Enforcement Unit that will be charged with investigating unfair trading practices in countries like China.” Obama said. “There will be more inspections to prevent counterfeit or unsafe goods from crossing our borders.”
ECONOMY
Obama finally addressed the Job crisis in America. He touched upon making a training program for unskilled workers.
He went on to talk about the Buffet Rule which made Americans who earn 1million dollars a year or more have to pay at least 30 percent in taxes.
“Washington should stop subsidizing millionaires.” Obama argued, “if you’re earning a million dollars a year, you shouldn’t get special tax subsidies or deductions.”
“Join me in a national commitment to train 2 million Americans with skills that will lead directly to a job. My administration has already lined up more companies that want to help.” Obama said.
He plans on making training available at local community colleges and community centers to train people to the qualifications that jobs are looking for.