THE ODDS

Article:

Changing the Odds for Children at Risk: Seven Essential Principles of Educational Programs that Break the Cycle of Poverty.

Abstract: 

This book discusses many of the challenges and disadvantages that children face when growing up poor. S. Neuman (2010) explains seven key factors that will help break these odds, which are:

1. The critical years for changing the odds

2. Changing odds by funding that works

3. The seven essentials to changing the odds

4. Changing odds by helping strengthen families

5. Changing the odds through high-quality early care and education

6. Changing the odds through community-based programs

7. Changing the odds through after-school programs

Reflection:

I really enjoyed this article because it talks about many of the concepts that the organization I teach for stands by.  The seven factors discussed are all very much a part of our program and they have very much become a part of my teaching.  Much of Susan Neuman's research targets low-income families/students, as well as English language learners, which make up the majority of the students I teach.  Not only will this article help in supporting my thesis but it has connected me to an author who has researched a great amount in areas similar to what I am interested in, I'm excited to learn more.

Reference:

Neuman, Susan B.. Changing the Odds for Children at Risk. Santa Barbara, CA, USA: ABC-CLIO, 2008. ProQuest ebrary. Web. 24 March 2015.