Description
Black single mother scholars are often underreported and underserved in higher education. Barriers and obstacles can be insurmountable for many single mothers who may have had a break in education, including those designated as disconnected or opportunity youth. Opportunity youth is defined as young adults ages 16–24 not currently enrolled in school or working. As open-access institutions, community colleges are the largest pathway and opportunity to serve opportunity youth, including Black single mother scholars. Campuses have an immense potential to help young adults reconnect to education and obtain skills for mid-level careers and growing opportunities. This study sought to explore Black single mother scholars in their 1st year of community college after a period of disconnection to provide insights and influences to ensure retention, engagement, and academic success for this marginalized population. Research analysis provided resources, support, programs, and practitioner tools that positively and negatively affect Black student mother scholars’ academic success. Implications for policies, procedures and future research are also discussed. Keywords: parenthood, single mothers, Black women, opportunity youth, disengagement, higher education
