Do Whatever You Can to Try to Support That Kid: School Counselors Experiences Addressing Student Homelessness

Authors

Havlik, S.A., Rowley, P., Puckett, J., Wilson, G., Neason, E.

Type
Journal Article
Year published
2017
Journal
Professional School Counseling
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…

Keywords