The hustle and bustle of a new school year has already begun, at least in the McRae household. It’s a time filled with new teachers, new school supplies, and of course, new routines.
As Mississippi families settle into those routines, I’d encourage you to consider adding one more: regularly setting aside money for your child’s future.
The cost of education and career training continues to climb, and too many young people are starting adulthood weighed down by debt. According to a 2026 analysis by the Education Data Initiative, the average Mississippian with student debt owes more than $39,000. That kind of debt can follow someone for years, delaying everything from buying a home to starting a family or saving for retirement.
Of course, a four-year college isn’t the only path that requires planning. Trade schools, certifications, and other career training programs can come with significant costs, too.
That’s why starting early matters. Even modest contributions made consistently over time can help families prepare for those expenses and reduce how much their children may need to borrow later.
The Mississippi Affordable College Savings (MACS) program is one tool families can use to get started. A MACS account can be opened with just $25 and offers tax advantages while helping families save for a wide range of education expenses, including college and career training. We recently reduced program fees by nearly 20 percent, allowing families to keep more of their money invested for the future. Visit treasury.ms.gov/macs to learn more.
For families planning on a four-year degree, the Mississippi Prepaid Affordable College Tuition (MPACT) plan offers another option. MPACT allows families to lock in today’s tuition rates and prepay future college tuition for as little as $10 a day. Open enrollment begins September 1. Visit treasury.ms.gov/mpact for more information.
None of us know exactly what our children will end up doing when they grow up. But whether their future includes a university, community college, trade school, or career certification, we can give them more options by planning ahead.
As you settle into the back-to-school routine this year, consider making saving for your child’s future part of it. A little bit today can make a meaningful difference when that next chapter arrives.
And to all of Mississippi’s students, teachers, and parents: Have a safe, successful, and productive school year.
This MFP Voices opinion essay reflects the personal opinion of its author(s). The column does not necessarily represent the views of the Mississippi Free Press, its staff or board members. To submit an opinion for the MFP Voices section, send up to 1,200 words and sources fact-checking the included information to voices@mississippifreepress.org. We welcome a wide variety of viewpoints.
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