Helping with Homelessness in School and Out

Article Author name(s): Helena Holgersson-Shorter
Title of article: Helping with Homelessness in School and Out
Title of journal: Teaching Tolerance
Date of publication: Fall 2010
Volume of the journal: Thirty eight

http://www.tolerance.org/magazine/number-38-fall-2010/helping-homeless-school-and-out

Summary: Poverty and student homelessness.
Topic: Schools and teachers can help homeless students by proving information and resources.
Introduction: A large number of students in this country are defined as homeless, and the figure is very likely significantly under reported. This article addresses the ways that teachers can relate to students and help provide resources. Teachers should build relationships so they can be part of the solution.
Intended audience: Educators, parents, students.
Key Points: During the 2006-2007 and 2008-2009 schools years, the nation saw a 50% increase in student homelessness. Homeless students are thinking about survival (lack of food, shelter, clothing, social anxiety, etc.) and not focusing on cognitive development. NCLB provides each school district must have a “homelessness coordinator”, must allow student to enroll without a permanent address and must provide transportation to and from schools that accommodates a “highly mobile” student. When their home is an uncertain place, with teachers and in school is where homeless students often feel the most secure.
Relevance: A huge number of students are affected by not having a consistent place to live, and often suffer the effects of great poverty. Teachers in most all communities will be able to relate to this article and see that it is a prevalent issue among students.