School should be where everyone has a fair shot, but sadly, that’s not always the case. There are big differences in how well students can learn, and two big reasons common today are their family’s money and their race.
Money makes a huge difference. Families with less money often can’t afford extra help from tutors, fun activities that boost learning, or even the latest computers. Schools in wealthier areas usually get more money from property taxes, meaning better classrooms, higher teacher pay, and more learning opportunities. This already gives the students living in those areas a leg up. Education inequality is a topic that draws strong opinions, and the voices of students and parents show how divided experiences can be. A student, Cody McMillan, believes education inequality is more of an excuse than a real problem. “It doesn’t exist,” he stated. “Everyone has the same chance if they put in the effort.” For him, success comes down to mindset and motivation, regardless of where you go to school or how much money you have.
On the other hand, Dawn Ketcham, a mother of two, sees a very different reality. “I’ve seen kids in wealthier neighborhoods get better schools, more programs, and newer materials”. Her family’s income has limited access to things such as tutoring and extracurricular activities, and supporting kids’ education often comes at the cost of time and money. For her, economic status is a major factor in education inequality. These two views highlight a deeper problem. While some believe success is available to all who work hard, others experience how uneven access to resources shapes educational outcomes. Closing the gap means recognizing these differences and working toward a system where all students, regardless of background, get an equal chance to do well.
Sources:
https://www.ft.com/content/28e923e2-d934-4aa0-8cbe-2d6f4b2f4014
https://www.epi.org/publication/education-inequalities-at-the-school-starting-gate/
https://cepa.stanford.edu/research-areas/poverty-and-inequality
https://americangovernment.abcclio.com/Search/Display/1785595?terms=education+inequality&sTypeId=2
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