How can we help students cope with stress from the recession?

As the school year begins, be aware of the number and cost of the supplies you want students to bring to class. Also, teach students about the recession. Show them the cycle of economic trends.
Lucilla Clarke, El Paso, Texas

Consistency. The one thing that can stay familiar and constant is school. Obviously, as educators, we will have compassion for students in tough situations. For many students, school is their escape from hard home situations.
Chris Armbruster, West Mifflin, Pa.

Give them the lowest possible rates on their college loans without penalizing them, and give them time to pay off the loans.
Nilda Garza, Chicago

We might begin helping our students cope with stress from the recession by actually offering college classes they need when they return to school, and not piling the responsibility of funding higher ed on their shoulders by raising tuition. Here in Washington state, many of the community colleges are responding to budget cuts by cutting back on course offerings, and tuition will increase 7 percent this school year and an additional 7 percent next school year. How can we seriously discuss helping students cope with stress from the recession when colleges are contributing to the problem?
Phil Ray Jack, Green River, Wash.

Support the fight to mandate school counselors in every level of education.
Claudia Campa, Yonkers, N.Y.