School-Based Stakeholders' Perspectives on Neighborhood Redevelopment

• In Event: Intersections of Education and Neighborhood, Housing, and Transportation Policies

Abstract

This study investigates student, teacher, and parent perspectives on neighborhood redevelopment in their community. Participants were asked how they felt about their neighborhood, and most students were happy about the changes including newer buildings and nicer schools. However, students and parents also lost contact with friends and family during the relocation and redevelopment process, resulting in a loss of their feelings of belonging in the neighborhood. Students were excited by the addition of new amenities, but parents were concerned over the inequitable allocation of these services. Findings support the importance of intersectoral collaboration between housing and education sectors, and highlight the necessity of including children’s voices when planning, implementing and evaluating policy initiatives that directly impact their lives.

Authors

• Sejal Patel, Ryerson University

• Krischanda Bemister, Ryerson University