Many parents are spending one-third of their income on a college education.

Statistics from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development show that the U. S. ranks:

• First in government spending on education;

• 18th in high school graduation rates;

• 10th among countries in 25-35 year-olds who have college degrees; and

• First among countries with 55-65 year-olds who have college degrees.

These are just some interesting statistics but it is food for thought. College is a major investment. Include your student in financial discussions so they know where the money is coming from and what their responsibilities are.