From the student's perspective: A narrative report of what urban homeless students need from schools

Abstract

This narrative inquiry sought to understand from the homeless students' perspective the meaning of home, how homelessness affects schooling, what homeless students need from school, and whether or not policy and law are meeting the needs of homeless students. The four stories told by these homeless adolescents are unique; and yet, similar themes emerged relating to the experiences and challenges they face being homeless, in a shelter environment, and attending public schools. The theoretical perspective of ecological systems theory and the narrative inquiry approach provided the foundation for this study. The four adolescents provided unique and insightful descriptions of the homeless experience despite differing interpretations from society of the meaning of home and what homeless students need from schools. It was concluded that homeless students defined home from a relational aspect instead of just a structure or dwelling place. Homeless students identified challenges regarding schooling, based on shelter conditions, rules, and family, but were supported by provisions as set forth in policy and law. The existence of positive relationships was a significant factor in the successful transitions between home and school.