What is wrong with the 21st century GI bill?
This recent coverage of the 21st Century GI Bill reveals that veterans tend to enroll in community college and for-profit institutions because of cost, convenience, and because these institutions cater to their needs. The bill is a very good thing for veterans and is the right thing to do. It basically provides veterans with “enough aid to attend the most expensive public college in their states.” But this article also correctly points out that cost is not the only factor considered by veterans.
Some of the student veterans quoted in this article explain why they selected community colleges or for-profit institutions. Some explain why they participate in online programs offered by these types of institutions. They describe the importance of receiving adequate support, “veteran-oriented services,” a welcoming environment, and the flexibility of combining work and online learning. The article then goes on to describe five institutions that attract and serve student veterans, including three that are basically online institutions. And it lists the twenty-five institutions with the largest numbers of student veterans, of which more than half are online institutions.
So, why is it that the 21st Century GI Bill discriminates against online programs and institutions? The bill contains a provision that prohibits veterans attending an online program from receiving that portion of their GI benefits that helps cover housing costs. That means that two student veterans living on the same cul de sac may receive different levels of GI benefits simply because one drives to a campus and the other studies online. Does this make any sense? Why is it that the online delivery mode is specifically identified for decreased benefits when this mode is clearly one that veterans find attractive, welcoming, supportive, and valuable? Does this aspect of the bill effectively and fairly serve our veterans?
Let me know what you think.
Mike
Share This7 Responses to “What is wrong with the 21st century GI bill?”
Nicole Says:
As an academic advisor, working specifically with military learners and veterans, I find it appalling that the new GI Bill differentiates the amount of funding that will be provided to students based on the modality that they have chosen for their learning. Servicemembers today often choose online instutions based on the optempo of the military environment; meaning that they may finally have the opportunity to start or finish their degree due to the ability to do so online.
I agree with the article and that students are looking for military or veteran-friendly institutions that provide them with resources and support while they go through their programs. However, I also believe that some servicemembers and veterans choose online institutions out of necesity. Our active duty servicemembers and reservists do not have the luxury of planning their lives one, two, or three years out. Their missions, deployments, temporary duties, annual training, etc. does not afford them the ability to register for a Monday – Friday 9-10 a.m. class. They need to know that their institution will provide them with the flexibility necessary for them to meet their mission first.
I work with many students who start or continue their courses while deployed. The new GI Bill will provide these students with much needed increased benefits, however, they will essentially be given less funding than their counterparts who are stationed state-side and using their benefits at a land-based institution. Although I am thrilled to see that the new GI Bill passed, I am disappointed that all veterans, regardless of where they choose to get their education, will not be treated equally.
Christina Jeffrey Says:
As the mother of two young men who have earned GI benefits, I am disturbed by the news that our government is discriminating against online programs. I am so glad Mike brought this to my attention. I will be informing my congressman and senators of my disappointment and ask them to correct this as soon as possible.
Russ Carpenter Says:
Let us consider the situation where the GI Bill disbursement is equal regardless of institutional venue. Cul-de-sac Resident 1 drives 20 miles, two or three nights a week to attend an in-residence program. Cul-de-sac Resident 2 attends Capella, avoids the drive, and draws the same money; in the end, he/she is financially ahead. Is that “equal?” I think Resident 1 would have a legitimate gripe.
At the end of the day, it is free money! Perhaps I won’t get the housing allowance, but I’m not inclined to look the proverbial gift-horse in the mouth…
Mike Offerman Says:
Russ, thanks for your comment. I understand your position about the gift-horse.
Mike
Bruce Becker PHD (Practitioner Says:
This is an interesting topic for me as both the military and Federal Government continues to fund my education. There are many reasons why the housing/living allowance may vary. The US department of Veteran affairs does take into account whether or not you’re attending courses traditionally or online. (Note) This has not always been the case but more so now. The rational? My assumptions tell me that a rocky economy may have a lot to do with it. Will it ever change is a different story. However, note you can be married, drawing two incomes, be on military disability, and still draw chapter 31 Voc. Rehab. Military benefits. Questions: please reply.
Bruce Becker MBA, BSIT, Cyber Security Expert
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Shawn Hussey Says:
Russ,
I’d like to address your comment specifically. First, I don’t know your situation, so I’ll withhold any specific comments. I do know mine and the money that I EARNED through the GI Bill wasn’t ‘free’. Please don’t cheapen military service by referring to benefits earned as ‘free’. It is just as appalling as saying that we are providing ‘free’ healthcare for service connected disabilities.
Second, being wise with finances should hardly invoke a ‘penalty’. Both individuals in your scenario have the same options. However, the government is attempting to protect the market share of poorly run state institutions by curtailing the funds available to students seeking alternative education. We need to realize when politicians are pandering and manipulating and this is it!
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Steven D. Ballard Says:
Veteran’s choose schools like Capella University because it gives vets an edge and lord knows we need an edge. Capella works and allows veterans credit hours where other universities does not or take away credit hours. Capella University has been very accommodating thus far.
This is why I picked a school such as Capella University.
July 30th, 2008 at 12:32 pm