Teen Parent Services

Teen parents face special challenges in juggling schoolwork with the demands of pregnancy and /or raising a child. Teen Parent Services (TPS) is designed to help young parents remove any obstacles that might keep them from earning a diploma, an important step in becoming independent adults.

Frequently-asked Questions:

I’m busy taking care of my baby. Why should I stay in school?
A high school diploma or GED certificate can offer you a better chance of being able to give your children the things they need and want. Graduates usually make more money than people who have not finished high school do. The pride you will feel when you receive your diploma will help both you and your baby to feel more confident. Being a student and a parent may not always be easy, but TPS is here to help you succeed.

How can TPS help me with school?

• As a TPS participant, you can earn a $15 gift card every month. (Proof of school attendance and a monthly conversation with the TPS case manager are required.) You’ll get a $30 gift card when you get your high school diploma or GED certificate.
• Childcare. TPS can refer you to a program that may help you pay for daycare.
• Transportation. TPS will work with you regarding your options for getting to and from your classes and your child’s daycare.

What if I’ve already quit school?
TPS can work with you to help you find a school or GED program that is right for you. Once you are back in classes, you will be eligible for all the benefits of TPS.

How can TPS help me with parenting? Who will I work with if I join TPS?
The TPS program has its own case managers that work with young parents. She can help you with family health issues such as birth control, child development, relationships, and establishing paternity. The TPS case manager is here to answer questions and to refer you to any other resource you may need. She will track your progress in school, and help you stay on the path to graduation. The TPS case manager should be thought of as a guide and mentor to you.

How much does it cost to join TPS?
Teen Parent Services is free to teens that qualify for the program.

Will I have to go to the office for meetings?
You will have an appointment in the office when you first sign up for TPS. If you cannot come to the office, the TPS case manager can make plans to meet you at school or another location. After you are enrolled, the case manager will call you on the phone at least once a month to see how you are doing and answer any questions. You may also call her or make appointments to see her as needed.

Who else will know what I tell the TPS case manager?
All information is confidential, which means it is only shared between you and the TPS case manager. The case manager understands that your conversations may be of a personal nature.

What do your clients like best about being in TPS?
Many of our teen parents have graduated from high school; some have chosen to go on to college. Many clients say that they do not think they would have done so without TPS. Of all the things TPS offers, many clients say the best thing was the feeling that the TPS case manager really expected them to succeed, and that they had a trusted person to talk to.

Who can join TPS?
In order to qualify, teens must:

• Be pregnant or parenting, and
• Be 19 years old or younger, and
• NOT yet have earned a high school diploma/GED certificate and
• Be a part of the WIC or Family Case Management program

TPS sounds like a great program. How do I sign up or get more information?
Call 312-566-0700 Ask to speak with a Teen Parent Services Case Manager