Teacher Resources

Teacher Resources: Welcome

Why should teachers be aware?

Action:

Teachers should continuously and openly advertise these services in their classrooms and around the school in forms of posters and handouts so that students are aware of the existence of these programs in case they find themselves in a desperate situation. It is often difficult for youth to reach out to adults in the community for fear of being judged, forced into foster care or welfare programs. Therefore, it is imperative for this information to be readily available so that such students are not left stranded.

As educators it is important to know and understand the situations and circumstance that students maybe experiencing. Youths who are experiencing homelessness are likely to be exhibiting symptoms of stress, therefore, it is incumbent upon the educators to be sensitive to their needs. Youth experiencing homelessness may find regular attendance difficult, and still this may be the only pace of stability in their lives. Educators should show a warm and caring attitude towards students so that they can know that it is possible to have positive interactions with adults. Homelessness is sometimes the result of maltreatment that they received from the adults in their lives. This awareness of the student’s situation helps the educator to address concerns or comment directed at that student.

Being Informed and Unbiased:

To be mindful of creating a space where all adolescents feel comfortable and safe. Teachers should recognize those that don’t feel comfortable and take action. Find out the root cause that is enabling the youth to feel conformable in order for them to reach their potential.

To take initiatives to get rid of lingering myths and stereotypes about homelessness. The “myths vs. facts” section is an important tool to debunk myths and stereotypes about homeless. For example, the majority of homeless individuals are not on the streets.

To engage in culturally responsive actions that help us as educators ensure that our privilege does not affect the way we interact and build relationships with students/youth.

To acknowledge that intersectionality is real. Poverty can affect all aspects of a student’s life from nutritious food, to guidance to shelter and clothing. It is important to know that apart from lower economic status, other identities such as race, gender, sexual identity can also result in different self esteem levels, situations, and outcomes in different youth. Note: it is important NOT to assume that it is ONLY a CERTAIN pattern.

To spread awareness on concerns related to homelessness among students, school/community staff, and parents alike and find ways to best approach them. Note: It is important to collaborate with other professionals for the best outcome

Overall, it is helpful to be prepared and aware of the available services open to youth which they themselves may not know about. For instance, although there are different homeless shelters across the GTA, some serve to the specific needs related to their immediate community. Thus, it is also important to identify which services students can best benefit from contextually.

Teacher Resources: Text

Tips for Teachers

Educators can assist students experiencing homelessness by:

Not requesting they bring toys and other items from home, due to the possibility of some students not having any because of their tenuous living accommodation.
Always have snacks available in the classroom and support the breakfast program at your school.
Don’t assume anything about school record but evaluate the student in both written and oral forms so as not to teach below or above the student’s level.
Find time for a new student check in with the teacher nor an adult at the school.
Be mindful that the student may be extremely attached to their possessions.
Be mindful of the amount of homework
Be careful not to discuss a student's situation in a publicly.
Give student warning when transitioning from one activity to the next to give them time to adjust. Be consistent because everything else is probably beyond the student’s control.
Form a 1:1 buddy system for the whole class with the goal of providing new and struggling student with extra resources to help them to adjust.
Plan assignments so that student do not have to take work home.
Do not take their privileges or their possessions away as a form of punishment.
If they fall asleep in class, investigate why and then take the necessary steps according the school's protocol.
Be proactive if tutoring is required and get it through the school or community programs.
The youth may need referral to school or community counselling.
Regardless of the situation, always reach out to the parents or guardian, and do not allow the youth to become another negative statistic.

The following could be signs that a youth is experiencing homelessness. Note: This is a general guide. Please note that stereotype of homelessness does not match exactly with youths who have lost their homes.

Inconsistency in Education