Breaking the Cycle: Homelessness and Its Impact on Education in Portland

Homelessness is not just a distant issue, it’s a dark reality right here in Portland. As we sip our coffee in cozy cafes, children and youth are navigating the harsh streets, their dreams stifled by lack of stability. Homelessness is not just a housing issue; it's an education crisis. In Portland, thousands of children and youth experience homelessness every year, facing immense challenges that hinder their ability to access quality education. I want to discuss the intersection of homelessness and education, shedding light on the challenges faced by our most vulnerable students.

The Invisible Struggle: How Homelessness Impacts Education

Imagine being a student without a permanent address. Homeless children and youth face constant disorder from shifting shelters, couch-surfing, or sleeping in cars. These disruptions wreak havoc on their learning environments. According to the National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE), these students are twice as likely to repeat a grade due to frequent school changes. The classroom becomes a revolving door, and stability remains elusive. Homelessness isn’t just about physical discomfort; it’s a mental and emotional battle. Witnessing violence, living in crowded shelters, and fearing for safety takes a major toll. Research by Shelter reveals that teachers across Britain recognize the visible effects of homelessness on children. Anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues hinder learning and academic success. Picture yourself doing homework without a quiet space or reliable internet on daily basis. For homeless students, this is their reality. Homework completion becomes a demanding  task when you’re couch-surfing or living in a shelter. Moreover, the lack of parental involvement due to survival priorities intensifies the situation.

Unique Challenges for Specific Groups

Portland’s streets harbor a high number of unaccompanied homeless youth. Teenagers without guardianship are vulnerable to exploitation when they face unique challenges daily. The NCHE emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to support these resilient young individuals.

Homelessness intersects with disability, creating a double burden. Students with disabilities experience higher rates of homelessness, and their educational needs are often overlooked. Schools must provide tailored services, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), to ensure equitable access.

Evidence-Based Solutions

Local homeless education partnerships play a crucial role. Collaboration between schools, shelters, and community organizations ensures timely enrollment, transportation, and access to services. The NCHE provides resources for effective collaboration. Educators need training in trauma-informed practices. Recognizing trauma cues, creating safe spaces, and fostering resilience are essential. Trauma-informed schools prioritize emotional well-being alongside academics. Educators are frontline advocates for this crisis. They can identify signs of homelessness, connect students with resources, and provide emotional support. Youth services personnel bridge the gap, by offering counseling, hygiene kits, and mentorship.

Homelessness should not define a child’s future. By understanding the challenges and implementing evidence-based strategies, we can break the cycle for a better tomorrow. Let’s champion education as a beacon of hope for homeless children and youth in Portland. Together, we can rewrite their stories.

Check out the links below for further reading!

Sources and Additional Reading 

“Educating Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness.” Nche.Ed.Gov, Mar. 2023, nche.ed.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AnnotatedResearchSummaryReport-2023.pdf. 

Gabriel, Elizabeth. “Oregon School Districts, Nonprofits Work to Re-Engage, Empower Youth Who Are Homeless.” Opb, OPB, 13 May 2021, www.opb.org/article/2021/05/13/oregon-school-districts-nonprofits-empower-youth-who-are-homeless/.  Photo #1

Galvez, Martha, and Jessica Luna. “The Impact on Education Outcomes.” Tacomahousing.Org, Dec. 2014, www.tacomahousing.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Urban-Institute-THA-Homelessness-and-Education-2014-12-22.pdf. 

Griffith, Cynthia. “How Do Homeless Children Go to School?” Invisible People, 29 Nov. 2022, invisiblepeople.tv/how-do-homeless-children-go-to-school/.  Photo #2

McCurdy, Christen. “More Homelessness Expected among K-12 Students in Portland.” Street Roots, Street Roots, 8 Aug. 2020, www.streetroots.org/news/2020/08/08/more-homelessness-expected-among-k-12-students. 

McGah, John, and Elena Saavedra. “Homelessness and Education Cross-System Collaboration.” Nche.Ed.Gov, Dec. 2015, nche.ed.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/res-summ-cross-system.pdf. 

“Research – National Center for Homeless Education.” Nche.Ed.Gov, nche.ed.gov/research/. Accessed 23 Feb. 2024.