Parents wanting to learn more about Washington’s Guaranteed Education Tuition (GET) Program can attend a presentation on Thursday, Jan. 14 from 7-8:30 p.m. at Somerset Elementary School in Bellevue.

The free, informal event is designed to help local parents and grandparents understand how GET works, how its value is guaranteed, and how it can help families of young children afford college in future years.

“It’s an opportunity for parents to get general information about the program and also a chance for them to ask individual questions,” said GET Director Betty Lochner.

GET is a 529 prepaid tuition plan, where college savings are guaranteed by state law to keep pace with rising tuition no matter how much it increases in the future. GET offers flexible savings options, as well as tax-free growth and withdrawals. GET units can be used at nearly any college, university or vocational school in the country.

“Though college may often seem like a long time off, it’s critical for parents to start saving for college early when their children are young,” Lochner said. Grandparents and other relatives can also open or contribute to a child’s GET account.

The information event will provide current enrollment materials and GET staff will be available to help families with individual questions.

To RSVP or for further information email GETOutreach@hecb.wa.gov or call 1-800-955-2318.