Helping Teen Mothers Succeed

Abstract

Because the success of teen mothers is enhanced by completing high school, school districts should give high priority to supporting teen mothers to remain in school and to graduate. This article reviews the literature on the educational attainment of these students, their school aspirations, and the policies affecting their education. Although teens often begin mothering with a range of educational and social disadvantages, many teen mothers recommit to school to enhance their future opportunities. Unfortunately, rising school aspirations among teen mothers often are undermined by competing demands and the lack of consistent family and school support. School nurses can support teen mothers’ aspirations and contribute to their long-term success by linking them to resources and advocating for policies and practices that promote high school graduation.