How Austin's parenting student program increased retention by 20% and reduced student debt, offering a model for US colleges

Austin Community College (ACC) has made significant strides in supporting parenting students through its innovative program, which has increased retention rates by 20 percentage points. Launched in Fall 2021, the program has already demonstrated impressive results, offering a model for how financial and academic support can dramatically improve college outcomes for students with children.
According to a recent evaluation by Trellis Strategies, a national research firm, students in the program were more likely to remain enrolled than their peers. While 95% of participants stayed enrolled for the next semester, only 75% of their non-participating peers did. The results also show that students who received support were less likely to need emergency financial aid and borrowed $1,052 less per semester compared to those not in the program, as reported by the Forbes.
Support offered to parenting students
The Parenting Students Project, a partnership between United Way for Greater Austin and ACC, offers significant support to students with children. Participants in the program are eligible for a $500 monthly stipend, provided they maintain enrollment in at least nine credits and have children under age 12. They also receive enhanced academic advising, mental health support, and, for those who apply, a scholarship to help cover childcare costs.
Trellis compared the academic records of 95 program participants to over 7,000 other students with children enrolled during the same period. The evaluation found that parenting students in the program were not only more likely to stay enrolled but also had higher academic completion rates. These students completed more credits and were less likely to face financial emergencies, which often derail their education. As quoted by the Forbes, one participant shared that the program helped them manage work hours, giving them more time with their children while continuing their education.
The impact on retention and student debt
The results from the evaluation reflect the growing need for targeted support programs for students with children. The Parenting Students Project shows how relatively simple interventions, such as financial stipends and childcare support, can create a multiplier effect, benefiting both students and their families. The program's success in reducing student debt and increasing retention demonstrates its potential as a model for other institutions across the nation.
The success of this initiative is not just about academic improvement but also the emotional and family-related benefits, with many participants citing the sense of community and support they felt throughout the program. As more states look to address the needs of parenting students, programs like the one at ACC may serve as a vital blueprint for ensuring their success in higher education.