Enriching Lives - Marquis-Hobbs

• Marquis-Hobbs (2014) notes from those who work in high-poverty schools a key ingredient in improving education is "school leaders who understand how issues of poverty can affect the children they are trying to reach and develop programs that support students beyond their academic needs."
• Poverty impacts students in a variety of ways. Toxic Stress: Not having basic needs such as food, clothing, and safety is an ongoing source of anxiety and trauma producing stress that impedes learning. Hunger and Learning: A 2007 Georgetown University study found students who come to school hungry are sick more often, are more inclined to have ear infections, have higher rates of iron deficiency anemia, and are more frequently hospitalized. Future Focus: For those in generational poverty, surviving today's challenges are the focus rather than planning for a future that includes education.
• So what can be done? Marquis-Hobbs shares several strategies from several practitioners working in the field. Take the time to learn what poverty is and examine your own biases and assumptions. She notes that living in a poor community does not disable the student, but going to a school with low expectations can.
• Recognize students' strengths. You may be the first person to tell them what is "right" with them rather than what is wrong. This helps students build resilience and confidence. Engage families and encourage them to set high expectations at home. Parents respond well when they know they are valued and respected.
• Form partnerships with non-profit service providers, neighborhood groups, and faith-based organizations. These partnerships can bring expanded meaning to an education focused on the "whole child." Administrators and school boards are called on to make courageous decisions about what is best for all students and work toward a culture of collaboration in which the entire community works together for the betterment of the children.