"I'm Not Dumb or Done": Understanding Black Youth Who Are Homeless and High School Dropouts

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 24
  In Roundtable Session: Critical Examinations of Race and Class in Education

Abstract

This study examines the lived experiences of six Black youth who dropped out of high school in the 12th grade and are homeless. Using narrative inquiry and placed within a critical race theory framework, this research explores the challenges the participants faced in school and provides some explanation as to why they dropped out of high school. Preliminary findings show youth were vulnerable to scams and illegal activities, pushed out or pulled out of high school, and in state custody institutions, yet, they valued education and viewed a high school diploma or GED as a way to escape homelessness.

Author

• E Nichole Murray, University of Georgia - Athens