A new study released by the Child Poverty Action Lab (CPAL) found that students at Dallas College in Texas who experienced eviction were more likely to drop out of college and less likely to re-enroll compared to students who were not evicted. The study, which examined the relationship between evictions and college persistence and retention rates, identified relatively high eviction rates among female students, students with children or other dependents, Black students, and American Indian and Alaska Native students. Moreover, the study found that enrolled students with eviction filings were far less likely to earn credentials. The study’s findings support the need for housing solutions that help college students remain housed, especially given that evictions of students not only impact short-term housing security but also have long-lasting and negative impacts on educational outcomes, job opportunities, and earning potentials.
The study also suggested solutions for addressing evictions among students. “The CPAL study offered several steps forward for Dallas College, including providing legal representation for students and families, expanding on rent relief programs, and additional investments in staff members to support students at risk of an eviction,” explained an article about the study published in the Dallas Morning News.
Learn more about the study here.