Retention
Retention, It's hard to not help a student with bus fair money, gas money, transportation issues... Sometimes this is why they stop coming to school...
Congratulations for your achievements to date, Christopher. Do any of the students share their success stories as well?
I also agree about facing the same issues. I make it a point to tell about my hard work to get me to where i am today. Often times by sharing and showing hard work and tuff times will come its just how you work threw it. I have told all my students about the bad diet cheep or little to no food, missing out on parting and family times. Just to make it to school and work. it all pays off and the cream rises to the top. Life isnt easy but when people share hard times and the way that they make it threw it can inspire other to dig deep and make it work.
I agree, students have many hardships that stop them from coming to class. We have a resource center that is a service offered by our school. They have helped many students with issues such as bus passes. part time jos, time management, baby sitting services, etc. If the student expresses they need help, this is what we offer. Some students no matter what you do will help if they choose to drop.
Jon, does this agency have a physical presence in your school? Is a non-profit/social service agency?
My facility has a student resourse center. Its an outside agency that helps students with bus passes,meeting rent,etc. I've seen many students succeed with the help that otherwise would not.
However it's up to the student to want to ask for the help. Sometimes that can be the biggest challenge.I post the agency info in my classroom and remind the students of it's avaibility on a continous basis.
Paul, when you help a student with bus fare or gas money, do you create any expectations in return from them? Not necessarily repayment, but some positive behavior.
Loren Kroh
Priorities are a very personal thing. While many of us can easily see how some simple re-allocation of resources could make a big difference, it may not be that easy for the person who has to make the change.
Loren Kroh
Tierra, have you considered having previous students who changed their priorities to achieve positive results speak with you current students? Peer examples can be very powerful.
Loren Kroh
I agree with you. Unfortunately students sometimes don't have their priorities straight and could afford to get to school if they gave up something a little less important such as smoking. Although from time to time I will help a student in a bind. If it becomes a habbit maybe it should be addressed with the student to weigh out their options.
Yes, it's hard not to help a student with those issues. I have to agree with Tierra; we have to give them the resources to help themselves, but ultimately it comes down to what they really want to do.... succeed or quit. I think it's up to us as faculty to help them see the possibilies of either outcome.
I agree because I have faced the same issues with my students. Majority still end up leaving eventually when all the help runs out. I have researched and found different resources to send students to for help but I try my best not to take it personal because some students will take advantage. I always let them know that as adults we must sacrifice in order to get what we need out of life sometimes. The same students without bus fares are the ones I see going to the store during break for cigarettes. Prioritizing is very important.
