Impact of Hurricane Katrina on the Educational System in Southeast Louisiana: One-Year Follow-Up

Natural disasters have been shown to have a substantial impact on school-age children. Consequently, schools are positioned to be a source of support while helping students resume familiar roles and routines. However, few studies have examined how schools prepare for and respond to disasters. In this study, we investigated the impact of Hurricane Katrina on the educational system in southeast Louisiana 1 year later. A survey was distributed to students in graduate courses in the College of Education and Human Development at Southeastern Louisiana University, and results from 62 graduate students employed as teachers in three defined regions were examined. Changes in student enrollment and emotional well-being were identified as top school-related problems. Teachers also reported changes in their roles within the classroom and consistently identified the need for emotional and material support. Differences in responses among the three regions were also identified. The results provide valuable insights for university preparation programs and school districts. (Contains 2 tables.)