Teacher vs Poverty

Being in poverty and being homeless for our youth is a serious issue that plays out every single day, in the number one place where it shouldn't have to, America. We are suppose to be known as "The Land of Opportunity" and so many people come here to do just that but because we have our priorities all messed up we have wrecked that image. We have more poverty than any other country, and we shouldn't. We are the "richest" country, but yet we are not. Our youth is suffering dramatically which in turn is effecting each generation and then into our economy. Our children should be able to grow up in America and live out their dream just like we promote to other countries. But with poverty their dreams become shattered, and it's not their fault. They are forced to grow up and become responsible, letting go of all the normal opportunities that all children should get. We aren't helping ourselves if we can not help these kids, if they aren't capable of getting through high school and into college, and getting a decent job then we are just spinning in a continuous circle that has got us where we are today with the economy, in a recession. Being homeless takes away hope for our children, hope that they will someday live a "normal" life. It takes away dreams of becoming better than what they see around them. It takes away opportunities for them to do so, it takes away from their self esteem and ability to build strong relationships and to learn how to live in a functional society. They have to constantly fight every day to stay alive, whether it be begging on the street, or stealing a loaf of bread. Once someone has lived this way for so long, it is very hard to undue all the damage that has been done. Our children deserve a chance to be whatever they want to be in life. They deserve the opportunity like everyone else to go to college, become the next president, get married, and have a family while living comfortably. They did not ask for this life style so they shouldn't be punished or limited for being in the situation. 

As a teacher we could become actively involved in the homeless shelters in our community, and doing all that we can to help out. We can educate our children on the situation and give them opportunities to help out as well. We can also recognize families in our class that need extra help and do all that we can to support them and make sure that they get the same opportunities as everyone else. Just because they don't have the money to go to the play, or to the museum field trips doesn't mean that they shouldn't be able to go. We will supply for those children to go and get the same experience as their classmates because their deserve it, and it's not their fault. Giving our families helpful resources, and getting them involved just like all the other parents makes them feel welcome and equal to everyone else not less then. As teachers we should be aware of such situations and don't allow that to interfere with the children's education and opportunity to develop.