The Bend-La Pine Schools paid tribute Tuesday night to Sandy Schmidt.

It’s her job to ensure homeless children get a public education despite the obstacles in the way. They can get transportation, can enroll even if they don’t have all the required documents and can get an appropriate education based on what they require.

The definition of a student served by the program is broad, as is the need. More than 400 students have qualified.

Remember what high school was like? Imagine going through that without a set place to live, with uncertainty about meals and clean clothes. How well do you think you would have done?

Students who graduate or get a GED are several times more likely to live successful lives and avoid homelessness themselves. Those that don’t may struggle.

If you look at the school district report cards for Bend-La Pine’s high schools, what data that is available for homeless students is worrisome. They can be less likely than other students to even attend school.

Schmidt connects with these students. It’s her job, her passion.

“When we think about youth who are experiencing homelessness, public schools have the most interaction with students/children than any other organization,” she said. “We have a great opportunity to help kids be successful.”

She does her part. Do we as a community do enough to help these students? Or are we letting them down?