The statistics can be alarming. At the Open Door Mission, a majority of the adult population reads at a third grade level. That's why 55 of the children living there were honored Monday night for academic achievement. It's a key to breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness.

"We are very proud of you," said one of the organizers.

High school sophomore Kaylin Caudell hasn't been on the honor roll since middle school. It is quite an achievement since she's living at the Lydia House -- a family shelter -- with her brother and mother.

If not for this place, Kaylin said, ""Me and Tyler would probably be with our dad -- and mom would probably be in a shelter or Oregon. I'd rather she was in Oregon than on the streets."

Chances are if you're homeless, you're more likely to repeat your current grade.

"I had a difficult time in Kansas City," said Trevon Jones,who moved in with his mother in October.

"The last two years have been horrible for me," said Yvonne Townsell, Trevon's mother, who now has a job and is fighting her addictions.

On this night, the fifth grader is awarded for excellence in math. He knows his past and uses it as advice to other children who may be on a path of trouble.

Trevon: "I can tell them to stop because if I don't, it will mess your life up."

In all -- 55 students received honors. Five were on the honor roll -- including Kaylin's older brother, Tyler. "One of my dreams is to work at apple and be a build engineer…"

Sometimes in a position of homelessness -- our dreams don't shoot for the stars.

With education, it doesn't seem like anyone plans to hold back.

With Tyler wanting to be in technology, his sister, Kaylin, plans to become a lawyer.

Trevon, 11, wants to help people by becoming a police officer.