Over 400 Newberg School District teachers, staff and administrators experienced what it might be like to live in a typical low-income family trying to survive month to month in a poverty simulation on November 23, 2015. 

Nearly half of the 5,224 students in the Newberg School District are considered “economically disadvantaged.” That means their families qualify for free or reduced-priced meals based on their income levels. It’s a growing concern because poverty often becomes a barrier to success in school.

Approximately 60 community members played various roles for simulations, acting as loan collectors, Community Action staff, mortgage/rent collector, pawnbroker, police officer, utility company, social service caseworker, grocer, quick cash manager, employer, school teacher, child care worker, faith-based agency staff and community health care staff.