The Burden of Economic Struggle
How does poverty affect our students?
Who suffers from poverty?
According to the United States Census Bureau, currently in the United States, there are approximately 15.5 million children living in poverty. Out of those 15.5 million children, 21% are under the age of 18. These rates are even higher for American Indian children, Native Alaskan children, and children in families with female heads.
Specifically, how does poverty affect our students?
- It is a reality for some children, that the only nutrition they receive is at school.
- Children that live in poverty are more susceptible to emotional and social instability.
- Families that live in poverty, are least likely to be involved in the education of their children.
What are the causes of these issues?
Hunger is One of the Major Struggles Related to Poverty.
When a child, or student, does not receive the nutrition needed for normal physical and mental development, their academic performance suffers. Hunger directly affects the cognitive development of a child, and as their brains are not provided with the proper nutrition to develop, this causes a cognitive or intelligence lag. In other words children who face hunger, usually, fall behind in development.
Emotional Distress and Social Instability.
It is the case that in healthy young children, there exists a curiosity for learning and exploring which is needed for optimal brain development. Unfortunately, for children living in poverty, this natural curiosity to learn and explore is hindered by the conditions in which they may live. Ultimately, this causes young children to suffer emotional and social instability brought on by anxious attachments and feelings of insecurity. This affects later development, especially in the case of behavior and performance.
Parental Involvement
Families who live under poverty are less likely to be involved in their children's education. This is mainly caused by the priorities that are set by the families. Given a scenario, where a single mother is also the sole bread winner, it is less likely that she will be involved in her child's education if work, in order to provide for her loved ones, is her top priority. Education is a two part equation where parental involvement is one of the two major factors, when it is removed, it is not as effective.
What can be done in order to reduce the effects of poverty?
Taking Initiatives
Local school district, Houston Independent School District, takes the initiative in fighting hunger by securing funding for a free breakfast and lunch program that ensures free meals to all its students regardless of economic status.
Community Involvement Goes a Long Way
One of the most effective ways in which a community can build solidarity is by helping those in need. Initiatives like volunteering in the local food bank is a perfect way to begin. Programs provided like the Houston Food Bank, help thousands of local residents including children.
Case study: Houston Food Bank
Political Awareness
As constituents, it is our responsibility to ensure that we elect officials who take action against issues like poverty. Find out who represents you, and let them know what you would like to done in your community.
The Center for American Progress has compiled a list of changes which can help combat poverty. Reach your representative and let them know how you feel.