What is a significant impact of poverty on students in school?

Poverty can have a profound impact on students' overall development and learning experiences within the school environment. One significant effect is the potential gaps in literacy and social skills that students from low-income backgrounds may experience. These gaps can arise from a variety of factors associated with poverty, such as limited access to educational resources, inadequate support at home, and fewer opportunities for enriching experiences outside of school.

For instance, children living in poverty may not have as many books at home or access to educational materials, which can hinder their literacy development. Additionally, social skills can be affected due to limited interactions with peers in positive contexts, as well as instability in their home environments. This can lead to difficulties in communication, collaboration, and social interactions in school settings. Therefore, addressing these gaps is critical for ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically and socially, highlighting the significant impact of poverty on students in a school context.