This chapter explores the relationship between social class and educational attainment. The impact of social class on equality of educational opportunities is discussed, as well as the models of schooling that have been used in the United States in attempts to achieve equality of opportunity. The relationship between school expenditures and the quality of education are examined. School practices that result in the social reproduction of class are critically analyzed and discussed. This chapter also looks at the roles of resistance and parental involvement.
Following the completion of this chapter:
The learner will be able to discuss the relationship between social class and equality of educational opportunities.
The learner will be able to describe and to critique the various models of schooling that have been used to address equal educational opportunities.
The learner will be able to identify educational practices that have limited equal educational opportunity.
The learner will be able to discuss the relationship between school expenditures and educational attainment.
The learner will be able to discuss the role that schools play in the social reproduction of class.
The learner will be able to identify and discuss how student resistance and parental involvement impact educational opportunities.
