• Covid-19 has had an undeniable impact: 95% of the educators surveyed agree that Covid-19 has exacerbated the impact of pre-existing housing-related challenges. The top three areas most negatively impacted by housing-related challenges are students’ attendance, mental health and social-emotional skills. Enterprise and NHPF believe that in order to better anticipate the needs of students, schools should create proactive plans to support students experiencing housing-related challenges. These plans should leverage resources both inside and outside the classroom, from tutoring to mental health services to physical health activities. Schools must also offer training for educators to break down barriers to connecting students with supports. Housing and service providers should work collaboratively with schools to develop formal service provider partnerships so schools can more easily connect students and their families with the assistance they need. “The ripple effects of unstable housing can change the trajectory of a child’s life, which is why it is so critical to identify and address these challenges as quickly as possible,” said Stephany De Scisciolo, VP of Knowledge, Impact & Strategy, Enterprise. “The Covid-19 pandemic has threatened the stability of both home and school for millions of families. Students of color and those from low-income households are disproportionately impacted. Without immediate action to implement long-term solutions, we are putting our children and their children at risk.” “While all of the above recommendations must be enacted to eliminate impediments to academic, financial and social mobility, none will truly provide opportunity without the provision of more affordable housing,” said Richard F. Burns, President & CEO, NHPF. “Strengthening today’s most proficient tool to sustain affordable housing creation, LIHTC (Low Income Housing Tax Credit) is key to that.” Enterprise and NHPF are collaborating on a forthcoming report based on the survey findings that will highlight trends and share recommendations on how schools, communities, housing providers, government and nonprofits can work together to address housing challenges that impact educational outcomes. About the Survey The educators surveyed were spread out across the country and worked in urban, suburban and rural schools serving students from kindergarten through grade 12. They represent traditional public schools, charter schools and full-service community schools. Half of the educators work in Title I schools, in which 40 percent of the students come from low-income households.
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