Changing How Teachers View Low-Income Students

The classroom is a melting pot of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Yet, one thing that often goes unnoticed—or worse, misunderstood—is the socioeconomic status of our students.

Low-income students are vulnerable in our schools. It's time to rethink how we view and teach our low-income students. They deserve our belief in their potential.

Recognizing Bias

Whether we realize it or not, many of us have biases about students from low-income backgrounds. We might see them as less prepared, capable, or interested in learning. But socioeconomic status doesn't dictate intelligence, motivation, or potential. These kids might come from challenging environments, but that doesn't mean they can't excel.

Educator Activity: Using a self-reflection journal, ask yourself tough questions: What assumptions do I make about my students based on their socioeconomic status? How might these assumptions affect my teaching? This practice can set the foundation for a more equitable classroom.

See Their Strengths

Instead of focusing on what your students might lack, shift your perspective to what they bring to the table. Many low-income students possess resilience, creativity, and problem-solving skills beyond their years. They've often learned to navigate difficult situations with limited resources. By acknowledging and celebrating these strengths, we can help them see themselves as skilled and valuable classroom members.

Activity: Create a "Strengths Wall" in your classroom where students can showcase their abilities. This could be anything from artistic talents to problem-solving stories. Encourage your students to recognize and celebrate the strengths of their peers.    

Build Relationships Based on Trust

Building strong, trusting relationships can be a game-changer for low-income students who may feel marginalized or unsupported. Take the time to get to know your students and their families. Show genuine interest in their lives, and let them know you see them as individuals, not just as part of a demographic group.

Activity: Host regular "Getting to Know You" sessions where students can share their interests, hobbies, and dreams. You can do this through informal discussions, creative projects, or even a "show-and-tell" for younger students. The goal is to foster a classroom environment where every student feels seen and heard.

Provide Equitable Resources and Support

One of the biggest challenges low-income students face is access to resources—whether it's school supplies, technology, or a quiet place to study. We can advocate for these students and ensure they have the tools to succeed.

However, equity is more than just providing resources. It also involves understanding each student's challenges and tailoring support to meet those needs. This could involve offering extra time for assignments, providing after-school tutoring, or simply being flexible and understanding when life gets in the way.

Educator Activity: Work with your school's administration or local community organizations to create a resource closet with essentials like school supplies, hygiene products, and snacks. Make it discreet and accessible so students can get what they need without feeling embarrassed or singled out.

Promote a Growth Mindset

Low-income students often encounter more obstacles than their peers, which can sometimes lead to a fixed mindset or a belief that their abilities are limited by their circumstances. We can help shift this mindset by fostering a culture of growth and resilience.

Emphasize that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort and learning. Celebrate progress, no matter how small, and remind students that setbacks are a natural part of learning.

Activity: Introduce a "Growth Mindset Challenge" where students set personal goals and track their progress over time. Use positive reinforcement to highlight their efforts and achievements, helping them see that they can overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Additional Classroom Strategies

Here are some strategies to help you support all students, regardless of their economic background:

• Cultural Connection Projects: Encourage your students to share their family traditions, experiences, or challenges in a project or presentation. This activity allows them to bring their individual backgrounds into the classroom, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

• Flexible Homework Policies: Implement flexible homework policies that enable students to complete assignments in a way that works for their circumstances, such as offering different formats (e.g., written, oral, digital).

• Peer Mentorship Programs: Pair students together in a mentorship program where they can support each other academically and socially. This can benefit students who might feel isolated or overwhelmed.

Changing Perspectives, Changing Lives

When our perception of our students changes, they also change how they perceive themselves. Let's ensure they view themselves as competent, valuable, and prepared to overcome obstacles.

Written by Brooke Lektorich

Education World Contributor

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