Many of the most marginalized parents and caregivers in our schools struggle daily with poverty. Their energy and attention are focused on survival. They may be juggling several jobs in an effort to cover their basic expenses such as rent, groceries and child care. They may be struggling with debt and bankruptcy.
Often, their children (our students) shoulder a significant portion of the household tasks such as childcare, cooking and laundry in order to help support their parents or caregivers. Older high school students may have taken on paid work to contribute to household finances.
Financial stress and restrictions compound the isolation, stress and time limitations affecting all parents and caregivers. They may simply not have the additional energy to contact or work with the school to support their children through a bullying situation.