The statistics show that single mothers in the state of California who earn an associate degree are 39% less likely to live in poverty. That number rises to 61% for those who earn a bachelor’s degree. Despite promising numbers such as those, there is very little data on the number of student-parents in California.
"Forging Equitable Futures for Student Parents in California," was a virtual statewide summit, presented by California Competes, Blue Shield of California Foundation, the Michelson 20MM Foundation, Tipping Point Community, Ascend at the Aspen Institute and the Education Trust. The convening sought to build awareness of the challenges facing student-parents in California and inspire advocacy for effective policy changes and practices.
Keynote speaker Waukecha Wilkerson shared her path to a bachelor’s degree and how it changed her life. 
Dr. Su Jin Jez
“I join you today to talk about forging equitable futures for student-parents in California,” said Wilkerson, now gainfully employed and a homeowner.
In 2015, Wilkerson was a single mother with three children living in the inner city and receiving public assistance. Working seven days a week, she struggled to find quality childcare and even when she did, the cost was staggering. An internet search led her to Project Self-Sufficiency, which noted childcare reimbursement for single moms. The catch was she had to be enrolled in at least two college classes. Thinking back on how she’d failed a class in community college two decades prior, it was with hesitance that Wilkerson registered for two online courses.
The following semester she applied to join Project Self-Sufficiency. She was told what was expected of her—continuous enrollment, passing grades and quarterly check-ins. Then, she learned what she could expect—childcare assistance, textbook reimbursement, scholarship opportunities, gas cards, Christmas where other families would sponsor her children, food boxes for Thanksgiving, summer activities for the kids and back to school supplies.
