The pandemic has highlighted numerous societal issues, from workplace gender disparities to wealth inequities, and it has sparked crucial discussions about vulnerable schoolchildren in America. A recent report from NPR reveals that the nonprofit organization, Future Scholars Initiative, estimates that around 3 million students may have withdrawn from school since March 2020. This alarming trend raises concerns among educators regarding students who have not participated in virtual classes.
Many factors contribute to these dropouts, including a lack of internet access, disabilities, housing instability, and language barriers. The term “ghosting,” traditionally associated with disappearing friends or partners, has taken on a more serious meaning in the context of education, as families without internet access struggle to receive support from schools.
Insights from Social Workers
In a recent interview featured on a well-known news program, social worker Maria Lopez shared her insights: “We’re navigating unfamiliar territory,” she stated. “Finding these kids has never been this challenging in my career.” Connectivity issues are particularly prevalent in rural districts, with educators like Tom Johnson from Virginia noting that “many students and staff lack reliable internet.” Attempts to provide portable Wi-Fi have proven ineffective due to limited signal availability in remote locations.
Connectivity problems are not exclusive to rural areas; urban schools face similar challenges. “Wi-Fi has been an issue for everyone,” remarked Sarah Kim, a community outreach coordinator in Chicago. When students go missing, teachers worry about more than just academic performance. “Our students depend on us for various forms of support,” Kim explained, emphasizing the importance of resources like food and healthcare.
Supporting Students and Families
Part of Kim’s role involves reaching out to students and their families to ensure they have what they need to thrive, both academically and personally. “Many students rely on our breakfast and lunch programs to sustain them,” she noted. Before the pandemic, Kim spent her time assisting parents with uniforms and fostering parental engagement. Now, her focus has shifted to technology support, ensuring that students receive tablets and devices. However, she often encounters challenges in reaching students, with incorrect contact information or families relocating.
There is a growing concern among educators that temporary withdrawals may transform into permanent dropouts if families do not receive adequate support. “We must check in on our kids and ensure they’re okay,” Kim urged.
Further Reading
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Summary:
The pandemic has led to a staggering estimate of 3 million students dropping out of school, raising concerns among educators regarding their well-being. Factors such as internet access, disabilities, and housing instability contribute to this crisis. Teachers emphasize the importance of support systems, including food programs and technology assistance, to help students stay connected to their education. With the potential for temporary withdrawals to become permanent, proactive communication and outreach to families are critical.
Keyphrase: student dropouts during the pandemic
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