Is this what support feels like? The ‘Pause’ of MyCAA

I have a barrel of emotions running through me this morning. Distrust. Anger. Frustration. Not pretty emotions. And it is all for our military-spouses directed – AT – our administration.

MyCAA FA pays tuition for education and training courses, and professional licenses, certifications, and credentials. This includes state certifications for teachers, medical professionals and other occupations requiring recognized certifications; licensing exams and related prep courses; Continuing Education Unit (CEU) classes including those offered through professional associations; and degree programs leading to employment in Portable Career Fields. MyCAA also pays for High School Completion courses, GED tests and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. – http://www.militaryonesource.com/MOS/FindInformation/Category/MilitarySpouseCareerAdvancementAccounts.aspx

They say it is to review the program.

“This short-term break will allow us to better assess the program to ensure we are achieving that goal.” – http://www.militaryavenue.com/Articles/Defense+Department+Pauses+Spouse+Employment+Program-32977.aspx

I hope that is the case. I hope they will reestablish the program ASAP. Although, my gut tells me otherwise. Once it is reestablished how is it going to have changed?  You have to plan your education. If we aren’t sure a program is going to be available how can we plan for the Summer-session, or the Fall- semester? For those who had turned in their paper-work, and while waiting for approval had signed up for spring classes where is the money going to come from now? We are trying our hardest to plan around deployments, PCSs, children’s schedules. This is just another drop in the bucket of planning that leaves a sour taste in our mouth.

Just a month ago our First Lady Announced a boost in the budget for Family Programs:

“In addition, based on input from military spouses, the request will include $84 million for spousal career development, Obama said, including tuition assistance and a federal internship program.”
– http://www.militaryavenue.com/Articles/First+Lady+Announces+Family+Program+Budget+Boost-32780.aspx

I hate to point out their math error; an error my 1st grade son could surely point out them.Taking away is not adding.
Thank you to Military OneSource for not leaving us completely high-and-dry in the information department… here are some Alternative Educational Funding Opportunities. Yes, there are other options; scholarships, the GI Bill, education loans.  And, yes, we are flexible. I think most military-spouses are made of rubber; you can bend us, twist us, and we will not break. Most times we bounce right back into place. But it doesn’t mean it leaves us feeling very good; and it certainly doesn’t leave us feeling supported as we feel the rug being pulled out from under us (even if they say they will put the rug back where they found it).

– Leanne from MilitaryAvenue.com

Questions?  Stop in the Education Avenue:  Post an Education related question for other military-families and experts to help you with!
  Become an Expert, yourself, today! An ‘Expert’, me?! Most certainly!

byLeanneonTuesday, February 23, 2010Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to FacebookShare to PinterestMilitary Life:education,Leanne,Military Spouse Employment,spouse