CMS academy helps students considered homeless

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Charlotte mother opened up to Channel 9 about her struggles with homelessness.

Two years ago, she was evicted from her apartment, and since then has struggled to find housing and employment with a livable wage.

She has three children, and one of them is school-aged.

"That's the lowest of the low,” she said. “That's like one of the worst feelings in the world ever."

Because of how often the family is moving around, it's been difficult to keep her 9-year-old daughter in the same school.

"My daughter has a good spirit. She understands the situation," the woman said. "She just constantly says the same thing, like, 'Mom, I can't wait to get my own room again.'"

Her child is one of about 60 at Thomasboro Academy dealing with homelessness.

There are about 4,000 students considered homeless in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

"Empathy is a factor every single day in this school," said Thomasboro Academy Principal Jan McIver.

McIver said Thomasboro Academy has teachers trained to help and recognize students considered homeless and there is a social worker with the goal of helping those students who walk in the school’s doors every day.

From there, McIver said they work to provide, not just stability, but essentials like supplies, uniforms, shoes, socks and food, all while addressing the emotional or behavioral issues that can come with homelessness.

McIver said her main concern is that the problem is growing and not shrinking.

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