Unstable Housing Creates Challenges For Some Students

April 7, 2017 – Schools and community groups are banding together to assist students and their families during a vulnerable time in their life, when they find themselves homeless.

According to the National Center for Homeless Education, about 10 thousand students in New Mexico experienced homelessness during the 2014-2015 school year.

The NCHE also documented how students experience homelessness. About 76 percent are doubled up with family members, 14 percent are in shelters, transitional housing or awaiting foster care and 3 percent are unsheltered.

In this week’s show, producer Sarah Gustavus sits down with CLN Kids (Cuidando Los Ninos) and members from Santa Fe, Rio Rancho and Albuquerque public schools to talk about the issue and what the future looks like for programs that serve students and families who are homeless.

Guests:
Tonna Burgos, executive director of student services, Rio Rancho Public Schools
Gaile Herling, program coordinator, Santa Fe Public Schools Adelante Program
Kate Telis, development and communications director, CLNkids
Patrick Scott, liaison, APS Title I Homeless Project