“School Choice” (Feb. 26) misleads readers about the actual out-of-pocket cost of higher education by ignoring the billions of dollars each year that colleges award in student aid.

The nation’s private, nonprofit colleges are increasing student aid at a faster rate than tuition, at a time when nearly half of all endowments are worth less now than in 2008, and, in many cases, restricted by donor wishes.

The public good of private colleges is measured by the contributions of our graduates to the nation’s economic future, expansion of the tax-base and community service.

It is measured by the scientific and technological breakthroughs that come from university research, the local jobs and businesses supported by colleges and the cultural enrichment they bring to their communities.

It’s unfortunate that The Post chooses to cloud the truth, rather than illuminate higher education’s collective commitment to students and the public.

David L. Warren

President

National Association of

Independent Colleges

and Universities

Washington, DC