DES MOINES, IA (08/18/2011)(readMedia)-- State Treasurer Michael Fitzgerald announced today that 93% of the children that participated in College Savings Iowa's annual State Fair survey see getting a college education as a necessary step to achieving their career aspirations. "Iowa children are already planning for their futures," stated Fitzgerald. "This survey demonstrates how important it is for families to start planning and saving early to help make college a reality for their children."
"Every year we ask children visiting the fair what they want to be when they grow up and if they will need to go to college to achieve their career goals. Needless to say, we are always amazed by the responses they offer," Fitzgerald stated. Fifteen percent are planning on becoming teachers, with another 13% hoping to become veterinarians. Health care-related fields came in third this year with 11% of the responses, and professional athlete ranked fourth with 9%. "One little girl plans to go to college to become a princess, but not before having a great time a time at the State Fair."
In addition to the questions about career and college goals, the survey also asks children to identify their favorite thing to see or do at the State Fair. "Rides were definitely the favorite with kids this year," Fitzgerald said. Fair food was second on the list, with the Butter Cow and farm animals tying for third place. "Kids are especially fond of the big slide."
"Families that save and invest for their child's college education will be better prepared to meet the challenge of paying for it when the time arrives, and College Savings Iowa is here to help," added Fitzgerald. Anyone - parents, grandparents, friends and relatives - can invest in College Savings Iowa on behalf of a child. This year Iowa taxpayers can deduct up to $2,865 in contributions per beneficiary account from their adjusted gross income. * To learn more about College Savings Iowa, visit www.collegesavingsiowa.com or call 1-888-672-9116.
*Adjusted annually for inflation. If withdrawals are not qualified, the deductions must be added back to Iowa taxable income.
