Supporting High Students Experiencing Homelessness Going to College: Perspectives of Local Liaisons

Abstract

This qualitative study provides insight into the perceptions and experiences of local homeless liaisons supporting students experiencing homelessness who are preparing for and transitioning to college. Findings suggest that when it comes to preparing students experiencing homelessness for college, liaisons are very involved by addressing students’ three main areas of need. These include their basic needs (i.e., physiological, safety, and academic) and social-emotional needs (i.e., love and belonging and esteem), as well as needs related to college-going (i.e., students’ belief they can go to college) and expectations of college-going outcomes (i.e., students’ belief they can graduate from college). Findings suggest that liaisons play a particularly important role in supporting the college-going of students experiencing homelessness and do so primarily by working collaboratively with a system of stakeholders.

From Homeless to Student Housing: School Counselor Roles and Experiences in Preparing Students Experiencing Homelessness for College

“…We conducted follow-up interviews with select participants to clarify statements made during the initial interviews (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). We used triangulation by comparing multiple data sources (i.e., separate interviews with homeless liaisons; results reported in Havlik and Duckhorn [2020]; Creswell & Creswell, 2018). We engaged in peer debriefing by holding regular meetings to discuss and ask questions about the research and coding process (Creswell & Creswell, 2018).…”

“…School counselors do, however, recognize the importance of engaging in college preparation counseling and advisement for students experiencing homelessness (Havlik et al, 2014). Further, they are critical partners for local homeless liaisons (i.e., individuals who are designated in most public schools to help identify students as homeless and ensure that requirements of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act are met) in providing college and career support (Havlik & Duckhorn, 2020).…”