Clarification requested on continuing education expenses allowed

[SilverQT]

I work as an Executive Assistant - eleven years at the same company. I am 57 years old. I have fairly consistently enrolled in at least one college course at the local junior college per semester to keep my skills updated and maintain my value to my employer. I obtained an Associate Degree in May 2010. This is not a condition of employment – I wouldn’t lose my job if I did not do this, but it serves to fulfill an important component of the performance review where we are asked to demonstrate growth and commitment to continued improvement. (Not sure how I’d actually prove that without asking for a letter from my boss, which I am not comfortable doing.) It is important that I keep my skills updated, especially in this job market – one never knows! I am currently enrolled in a program for legal assisting, some online, some evening classes – again, one per semester or I’d overload. I am not reimbursed for this. It is not a high expense, but tuition and books for one class per semester average out to around $29 a month. How is this likely to be viewed? How literally is ‘required’ educational expense defined?

[SunshineGal]

I wouldn't worry about a $29 expense for higher education, I doubt anyone will question it.