Topic: A new schools initiative encourages teachers not to single out poorer kids

[Arachne]

The most recent novel by the Nobel laureate JM Coetzee, The Schooldays of Jesus, begins with a couple fleeing the law after taking their child out of school because he hates the lessons and community so much. It’s an extreme example, but one millions will find it easy to empathise with. Fewer people than you might think seem to have truly enjoyed their formative education and, for those who did not, one theme in particular recurs: the breathtaking cruelty of children. Bullying leaves permanent psychological scarring and young people become adept at learning what hurts, verbally and psychologically. Looks, personality and status are all easy targets, and particularly difficult to change.

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2018/may/14/pupil-poverty-proof-give-children-dignity-schools-teachers

[Brilko]

‘Poverty is nothing to be ashamed of. It doesn’t make you a lesser person. Let’s hide your poverty from everybody else.’

I grew up poor. I’m still poor. Poverty sucks, but this pretense wouldn’t make it any better and wouldn’t fool anyone. I find this to be oppressive.

[Arachne]

‘Poverty is nothing to be ashamed of. It doesn’t make you a lesser person. Let’s hide your poverty from everybody else.’

A more careful read would probably show you that the objective is actually downplaying displays of wealth and avoiding situations that draw attention to economic differences between children. Uniforms do a lot towards that effect; it's the little things beyond them that can scupper the efforts.