Reese’s family has recently experienced being homeless and it has started affecting her performance at school. Her community lacks resources to assist the family. Reese is at risk of
A getting removed from a sport team
B getting a job
C failing his psychology class
D dropping out of school
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is D dropping out of school.
Reese’s situation—being homeless and facing a lack of resources—significantly impacts her ability to succeed in school. Homelessness creates instability in multiple areas of life, from access to food, shelter, and personal safety to emotional and psychological stress. This instability can disrupt concentration, attendance, and engagement in school activities, all of which are critical for academic success. Additionally, the mental health toll, such as anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness, can further decrease motivation and academic performance.
When a student faces homelessness, there are several barriers to academic achievement. Homelessness can make it harder for Reese to focus on her studies, participate in class, or even attend school regularly. The stress of uncertain housing and possibly not knowing where she will sleep each night can overshadow academic priorities. In extreme cases, students in Reese’s position may become overwhelmed by their circumstances and decide to drop out of school, as they may not see a path to overcoming these challenges while trying to keep up with academic requirements.
Moreover, when a family lacks community resources, there are few support systems in place to mitigate these challenges. School counselors, social workers, or community organizations often play a role in helping students like Reese by providing access to resources, including temporary housing, food, and emotional support. In Reese’s case, however, the lack of these resources makes it more difficult to cope with her circumstances and stay in school.
Ultimately, the risk of dropping out becomes more imminent when homelessness and lack of support prevent the student from focusing on their education and achieving academic goals.