What we get wrong about the poverty gap in education
“This theory produced a gulf between what poor families needed and what policymakers believed they needed. Although poor families often lacked food, decent jobs, housing and health care, many programs focused on a perceived lack of motivation, work ethic or love of reading. This gap fueled long-standing stereotypes that blamed poor families for their misfortunes. The result: public policies that perpetuated stereotypes of low-income families and minorities. These policies often led to ineffective programs.”