Bill to Support Pregnant and Parenting Student's Access to Education

Pregnancy and parenting responsibilities often increase a teen mother's risk of dropping out of school, but we know empowering a young mother with skills and resources can go a long way. Teen mothers are often very motivated to complete their education in order to create a better life for themselves and their child. However, barriers such as lack of childcare, lack of transportation, discrimination and juggling parenting with schoolwork, make staying in school very difficult. Support and encouragement to navigate these barriers can make all the difference in a mother's life and in her child's life.

The Healthy Teen Network and the National Women's Law Center have been co-leading an effort to improve graduation rates among pregnant and parenting youth by providing these students the necessary policy and resource supports to assist them in completing their high school education prepared for college or careers. 

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Thanks to their advocacy, U.S. Senator Tom Udall (New Mexico) and U.S. Representative Jared Polis (Colorado) have stepped forward in Congress to lead this charge by agreeing to introduce the Pregnant and Parenting Students Access to Education Act (PPSAE). This bill would authorize resources for states and school districts to ensure that pregnant and parenting students get the support they need to stay in school and graduate career or college ready. Teen Success, Inc. applauds these Members of Congress for their leadership.

The bill will be introduced in May. Teen Success, Inc. has signed on as a sponsor of the Pregnant and Parenting Students Access to Education Act and we need you to take action today and assist us in building local and statewide support for the bill. Here's how you can help:

1. Write Your Senators and Representatives now. Any individual can make a difference for young parents in just five minutes or less.
2. Share the link with young people you support, your colleagues, your family and your friends and ask them to take action!
3. Spread the word on social media! Sample Facebook status updates and Tweets: 

TAKE ACTION: Urge your members of Congress to co-sponsor Pregnant and Parenting Student Bill! #PPSAE 

ACT NOW to ensure access to education for pregnant & parenting teens! #PPSAE

Help improve graduation rates among pregnant and parenting youth! #PPSAE

​Thank you!
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