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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 the back-to-school 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.
The state Treasurers office can provide some options.
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%, 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 Sept. 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.
Republican David McRae is the 55th treasurer for the state of Mississippi. He is in his second term. In this role, he helps manage the state’s cash flow, oversees College and Career Savings Mississippi and has returned more than $180 million in unclaimed money to Mississippians. For more information, visit Treasury.MS.gov.
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