At the same time, another high-profile pregnant teen, real-life TV star Jamie Lynn Spears, has drawn bitter criticism for her actions as a young role model. Babies having babies is an issue in the spotlight again – especially in light of recent data showing that the nation’s teen birth rate has risen for the first time in 15 years and that Texas has the highest rate in the country. For example, Alley’s House, which served 280 girls last year, helps teen mothers earn their GEDs and find jobs, while providing diapers, baby clothes and other items. LARA SOLT / DMN Eighteen-year-old Julia Palmer, who is due in a few weeks, looks into day-care options at Alley’s House, which served 280 girls last year. FILE/Fox Searchlight Actors Michael Cera and Ellen Page are shown in the movie Juno , a comedy about teenage pregnancy that was nominated for an Oscar for best picture. read more

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