In all four of the graphs comparing
fourth grade and eight grade math and reading scores there is a direct relationship
between the students grades and whether or not they receive free or reduces
lunches. You could conclude by looking at the graphs that the poverty of the
family of the student directly affects the student’s ability to learn and
succeed in school. Eligibility for the free or reduced lunch program is based
on the family’s income.
The lack of success of the student
could be based off a couple different factors. The student may feel that just
because they come from a lower class family that they are automatically doomed.
They feel that no matter what they can’t change their future and make better
lives for themselves than their parents provided for them. Another reason may
be that the student may be hungry. For a lot of poor families, the meals that their
children receive at school may be the largest or even only meal that that child
receives all day. I definitely do not work well when I am hungry. Its proven
that kids who eat breakfast often do better in school, we need food to provide
us with energy throughout the day.