Recorder Online, September 13, 2016: (Opinion) Ruby Payne – Understanding Poverty

“Payne said while none of these distinctions are intended to cast dispersions on any other group, she notes them because misunderstandings between those navigating the different economic circumstances occur frequently. Often, the wealthy make the laws that schools have to abide by while the middle class teachers administer them. When kids of extreme poverty attend, the disconnect between how they were raised and teacher expectations can cause divides because the norms may be very different. The expenditure of time and money differ widely as does the skill set for deciphering the hidden rules. Poverty is painful and entertainment helps with the pain so the cable bill may be paid before rent and utilities. While not logical from the middle class mindset this makes perfect sense to those who struggle financially. Payne reminded teachers that they shape lives more than they realize. At Payne’s CEO trainings, she’s found that when contemplating big decisions most still hear the voice of an influential educator on their internal board of directors.”