Setting a Precedent for Working Parents

"Teresita," a single mother of three from Mattapan, had to face a difficult choice that is all-too-common for single working parents. She had to choose between work and family.

Her 7-year-old daughter was having serious behavior problems in school and becoming more and more disturbed and unhappy. Children’s Hospital diagnosed her with emotional and psychological disorders, and they confirmed what Teresita already knew – that her daughter would do better with more attention from her. Teresita tried to be with her daughter as much as possible, but she had a full time job at a health center that required working on Saturdays.

While at work, Teresita received calls almost daily from her daughter’s school because the girl’s behavior was unmanageable. Teresita often had to leave work early to get her daughter. She also relied on help from her 17-year-old son, who would have to leave school early or even miss an entire day to watch his sister.

Teresita knew she had to do something. She asked her supervisor if she could reduce her hours, but there was no part-time work available. Teresita knew she had to choose between work and family, and she decided to resign and look for part-time work.