Do Whatever You Can to Try to Support That Kid: School Counselors Experiences Addressing Student Homelessness
Type
Year published
Journal
Accession number
25399
Title
Do Whatever You Can to Try to Support That Kid: School Counselors Experiences Addressing Student Homelessness
Volume and issue
21, 1
Organization
Villanova University, Villanova, PA
Abstract
This qualitative study explored the experiences of 23 school counselors in addressing the needs of students experiencing homelessness. Researchers used a sequential explanatory mixed methods approach, where the collection and analysis of qualitative data follows a quantitative study. Survey research has indicated that school counselors report low levels of engagement in interventions specifically recommended to support students affected by loss of housing, including parent consultations, mentorship and tutoring programs, small group and individual counseling, and teacher workshops. Counselors also report limited knowledge on homelessness and the McKinney-Vento Act. In this study, phenomenological analysis revealed two overarching themes: 1) school counselors as the first line of support and 2) the desire to help while feeling helpless. Findings suggest that participants feel underprepared to support the needs of students experiencing homelessness. They face challenges identifying students and addressing their needs and rely on collaborations with other professionals. (Author Abstract Modified)
Availability details
Available by subscription or purchase at the journal website: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.5330/1096-2409-21.1.47?journalC…