Children of Single-Mothers The Tale of a Young Man with Enormous Potential on a Slippery Slope Chris Davis

Introduction Introduction Focus: The effects of a child being raised by single mother Student is similar to me when I was his age Has ability to be very successful but is failing 7 of 8 classes Constantly in trouble

Context School, Classroom, Community - Primarily low- income, minority students School is in Needs Improvement Status The Student African-American Lives in apartment complex with many other single- parent families Single mother – works two jobs I am his U.S. History teacher and mentor Data Collection Methods Interviews – student, teachers, administrators, guidance counselor Work sample Classroom observation Mentor program

Profile/Portrait of Student Physically fit – athlete ( Plays football & basketball) Well-dressed, well-spoken Mother emphasizes education Enjoys history, sports, presentations, talking to others He is that kid!!!

Analysis of Data Interviews Student is aware of his behavior and potential Teachers are frustrated by him Artifact – assignment from my class ◦ Excellent writing & higher-order thinking skills 30 day time-frame for study Limited by 18 days of OSS / ISS Mentor program – working on strategies to help him focus ◦ Did my best to be unbiased Analysis – he is not receiving the support he needs both at home and school ◦ Could be in danger of failing school or trouble with the law

Conclusions Student needs intervention & positive male role-models in his life I learned that I have different roles as a teacher – educator, friend, father, brother, etc. Student’s future – he is at a crossroads Could go to college Could drop out Could get in trouble with the law Who knows????? Self-fulfilling prophecy… be careful