
My children attend public school. This means that they have classmates with a wide range of financial means. In addition to all the kids whose families can buy winter coats, birthday presents, and computers, there are kids in each class who live in subsidized housing and whose families do not own cars.
While all the kids share the same teachers and classrooms, they have very different experiences…even while at school. How resourced your family is makes a big difference in your daily experiences. This is true even in a place like a school where teachers and administrators are working hard to give each child an equal and rich experience.
Let me illustrate with a few examples. Take snacks. Continue reading “Economic Privilege and Elementary School”