Databook on the Educational Implications of Homelessness in Detroit & Michigan
Homelessness has a lasting impact on educational outcomes for K-12 students. Across educational indicators, students experiencing homelessness struggle more than their housed peers, and these challenges persist even after stable housing is found. However, the data show exceptions to this overarching trend, which indicates schools' responses can make a difference for students who have been homeless.
"The Educational Implications of Homelessness and Housing Instability in Detroit" databook, published in 2021, seeks to make new data on homelessness among K-12 students available to key stakeholders and policymakers in the City of Detroit in order to improve program planning and services. The databook shows differences in educational outcomes by students' experience of economic disadvantage and housing instability, compared to their more affluent peers.
During its first year, 2019, this project helped uncover the under identification of Detroit students experiencing homelessness. As a result, Detroit CAM and Wayne Metro Community Action Agency partnered to ensure all families entering Detroit's family shelters are connected to educational supports at their children's schools. That referral system connected more than 1,100 children to educational supporters in its first year – more than three times the number of children in shelter identified as receiving supports in the 2017-18 school year.
This project was supported by the McGregor Fund and Skillman Foundation.
Related research publications
Chronic housing instability poses educational risk for Detroit students
Recognizing Trauma: Why school discipline reform needs to consider student homelessness
A Way Home: Why Supporting Youth Experiencing Homelessness is Critical in Michigan
