Saving Money, Increasing Learning

A Venn diagram with saving money on one side and raising students' grades on the other could potentially show a significant overlap.  Almost everyone I talk with is struggling financially to some degree.  When families have less available cash, what is the potential impact on a child's grades? 

Many Emerson families are cutting back on services or products that were once considered to be necessities.  Many families have cut back on cable service.  Some families have "staycations" instead of going on long trips.  Instead of going to theme parks, some families are choosing to go to the neighborhood park, hike on local trails, or just let the kids enjoy increased time on video games or computers at home.  Sports and activities fees are no longer affordable for many.  Families are cutting coupons, looking for deals and cutting back on "extras."  For holiday gift, families are doing things with each other instead of buying elaborate gifts. Unemployment benefits may be ending for many Emerson families.

During all economic conditions, parents continue to want the best education possible for their children.  Many Emerson parents are unemployed, under-employed. or wish that they had higher paying jobs.  Education is often named as a key factor in how much can be earned in a job or career.  Parents generally want their children to "do better" than they have done- by avoiding some of life's pitfalls, to go farther in school than they have, and to be even happier than they are.  Education is recognized as a key to achieving greater happiness and stability. 

There may be a silver lining for student learning during the recession.  Because of the high unemployment rate, parents have more time to volunteer in their child's class.  Children have more time for homework.  Families are more focused on the value of education and how it can help them.  Parents appreciate the care that schools provide- especially with after school care- that allows them to focus on their careers (or job hunting) during their work day.  Students are less distracted by sports, practices, activities and vacations.  Decreased spending patterns have increased potential opportunities for students to study and for families to discuss schoolwork.  For parents, the additional time helping their children has the potential to increase their school achievement which in turn could prepare them to achieve academic goals, and therfore prepare them to earn a salary to provide for themselves and their own families someday.

Just from my own unscientific observations, I see that the stagnant economy in many cases is resulting in an increase in parent involvement. I pray for Emerson families who are in financial distress. Whatever your financial circumstance, my hope is that you will find additional family time to focus on activities that will support learning so that our children can meet their highest potential.