Consider This from NPR In Puerto Rico, Natural Disasters Take A Mental And Academic Toll On Children
Aug 21, 2023
Kavitha Cardoza, a dedicated reporter, travels to Puerto Rico to uncover the severe impact of natural disasters on students and teachers. She sheds light on how hurricanes and COVID-19 have devastated the mental health and educational outcomes of children on the island. With shockingly low proficiency rates in math and reading, Cardoza discusses personal stories of affected students and the struggle for recovery. The challenges faced by teachers amidst declining budgets and resources add another layer to this gripping narrative.
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Flooding in Salinas
- Deshañale Galarza's education was disrupted by floods in Salinas, Puerto Rico, causing her to miss two weeks of school.
- This incident highlights the recurring interruptions faced by students due to natural disasters.
Collective Trauma
- Puerto Ricans experience "collective island PTSD" due to frequent natural disasters since Hurricane Maria in 2017.
- These events, including earthquakes and COVID-19, have severely impacted students' social, academic, and emotional development.
Siblings' Worries
- Siblings Dinellas and Jadniel Rodriguez worry about their future due to missed school.
- Dinellas fears food insecurity during storms, and Jadniel struggles to focus on studying due to constant worry.