In today’s educational landscape, a significant number of college students are also parents, facing unique challenges that can hinder their academic success. Recent studies reveal that approximately 20% of college students have dependents, and many of these parenting students encounter basic needs insecurity while striving to earn their degrees. A recent survey highlighted that 6% of student parents identified as unhoused, while 17% reported experiencing some form of housing insecurity during their college journey.
Research conducted by various organizations has established a clear link between the threat of eviction and negative academic outcomes for student parents. Those facing eviction are 23% less likely to complete their bachelor’s degrees compared to their peers who have stable housing. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need to address housing insecurity among this vulnerable population, as it can lead to lower quality of life and long-term financial instability.
In the latest episode of a podcast series focused on student success, host Ashley Mowreader engages in a thought-provoking discussion with experts Edward Conroy and Nick Graetz. They delve into the specific challenges that eviction threats pose to student parents and the broader implications for educational attainment across generations.
Inside Higher Ed: To kick things off, could you provide an overview of your findings regarding the impact of eviction threats on student parents?
Eddy Conroy, a senior policy manager, explains that the primary objective of their research was to examine the effects of eviction threats on parenting students, a demographic that includes around 3 million individuals in the U.S. The findings revealed that the consequences of eviction threats are even more severe than anticipated, significantly jeopardizing the chances of these students completing their education.
Nick Graetz, an assistant professor, adds that their research is part of a larger initiative aimed at understanding the demographics affected by eviction. They discovered that households with children are at a higher risk of eviction, with filing rates being significantly elevated for these families. This partnership aimed to shed light on the specific challenges faced by parenting students.
Inside Higher Ed: It’s intriguing how even the mere threat of eviction can adversely affect completion rates.
Graetz emphasizes that the stress associated with potential eviction is particularly traumatic for parents. The financial strain often forces families to prioritize rent over essential needs like food and healthcare, leading to a cycle of instability that can culminate in eviction. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that landlords frequently target the same tenants for eviction, further complicating their financial situation.
Conroy highlights that navigating the eviction process is especially challenging for college students, who often face time constraints due to their academic and parenting responsibilities. The lack of legal representation in eviction court further diminishes their chances of success, as most individuals facing eviction do not have access to legal counsel.
Inside Higher Ed: What role can institutions play in supporting student parents facing housing insecurity?
Conroy suggests that universities need to collaborate with local housing authorities and community organizations to address the unique vulnerabilities of parenting students. While some institutions have begun to offer legal services and emergency aid, a more comprehensive approach is necessary to tackle the broader housing crisis affecting families.
Graetz adds that investing in emergency assistance and legal services can yield significant benefits for student parents, but these measures should be part of a larger strategy to address systemic housing issues. By fostering partnerships and advocating for policy changes, universities can play a crucial role in supporting this demographic.
Inside Higher Ed: As we look to the future, what are the next steps in this research?
Conroy and Graetz express their commitment to expanding their research and exploring the connections between housing stability and academic success. They aim to gather more data on the experiences of student parents across different regions and housing contexts, ultimately seeking to inform policy recommendations that can better support this population.
In conclusion, the conversation surrounding eviction threats and their impact on student parents is critical for understanding the broader implications for educational equity. By addressing these challenges, we can pave the way for a more supportive environment that fosters academic success for all students, regardless of their parental status.