Experiencing Homelessness: The Conditions and Outcomes of Homelessness Among California Students

• In Event: Differences in Educational Outcomes by Homeless Type

Abstract

California is in the midst of a crisis of homelessness. The number of students experiencing homelessness in grades k–12 rose by 7% to 270,000 from 2015-16 to 2018-19, and could be further exacerbated by the severe economic downturn arising from the COVID-19 crisis. This paper describes the characteristics of students experiencing homelessness, and identifies factors associated with differences in academic achievement.

We show disparities in the incidence of homelessness between students of color and White students that are striking and urgent. We find student achievement is significantly and negatively associated with homelessness, and especially for students with high mobility, in high-poverty schools, and in schools with high teacher turnover. We conclude with implications for policy and practice.

Authors

• Dion Burns, Learning Policy Institute

• Daniel Espinoza, Learning Policy Institute

• Ayana Kee Campoli, The Learning Policy Institute

• Naomi Ondrasek, Learning Policy Institute

• Man Yang, California Department of Developmental Services