A Needs Assessment of Low-Income Students Attending an Alternative High School: Qualitative Findings

At-risk students attending an alternative high school experience higher rates of life stressors that negatively impact their mental health, behavior, and school achievements. There are multiple school-related factors that can act as protective factors for students, reducing the negative impact of the stressors. The aim of study is to investigate what protective factors the school is implementing, what resources the school still needs, and whether the student and teacher perspectives on these needs are congruent. Teachers and students differed in their perception of student stressors, the impact of these stressors on students, the protective factors implemented by the school, and current student needs. Students at this alternative high school lack access to basic needs, take on inappropriate familial roles, experience high levels of community violence, and face instances of grief and loss. These stressors negatively impact their ability to concentrate, motivation, school attendance, and ability to trust others, as well as increased drug and alcohol use. We recommend that the school implement psychoeducation and support for the teachers, student case management, and mental health support for students in the school setting.