Impacts of COVID-19 on rural Latinx families and implications for policy

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted rural communities. While school closures helped slow the spread of transmission, this has exacerbated existing learning gaps for students in rural communities. A qualitative research study was conducted to understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social and academic disruptions as well as mental health of Latinx families. Four parent focus groups were conducted, and 18 semi-structured interviews with their children. Data collection took place from April to August of 2021. Five major themes emerged including 1) social disruptions, 2) family disruptions, 3) academic disruptions, 4) children’s mental health, and 5) concerns about returning to onsite learning. The findings from this study can inform development of programs and public policies to mitigate the challenges experienced by rural Latinx families during the pandemic.