A Framework for Understanding Poverty

Submitted by Kim Jonas
Professional Dev. Coor.
ESU 10

Recent data suggests that approximately 20-25% of Nebraska students are living in poverty.   In many of our communities, the poverty rate is much higher than this statewide estimate.   One way to analyze poverty data is to look at the Free and Reduced Lunch statistics collected by schools.  In the ESU 10 service area, nearly four of every ten students are receiving this benefit and this trend is growing.

Research also tells us that students growing up in an impoverished situation bring unique learning needs to school.  In one study, researchers Hart and Risley found huge discrepancies in vocabulary development of students growing up in impoverished environments compared to students growing up in working-class and affluent environments.

Dr. Ruby Payne, a leading expert and researcher on the impact of poverty on learning, work habits and decision making, has developed a “Framework for Understanding Poverty.”  Dr. Payne’s work provides practical guidance and strategies for working with students of poverty and their families.   I had the unique opportunity last summer to become a certified “Framework for Understanding Poverty” trainer.  I spent a week with Dr. Payne and her colleagues learning about the impact poverty has on a student’s learning.  Topics included in the training were:

• “Hidden rules” of poverty, middle class, and wealth
• Use of language and how it relates to economic class
• Understanding and relating to parents of different economic classes
• Recognizing poverty-related behaviors and their interventions

As a qualified trainer, I am able to provide ESU 10 school districts with a variety of professional development opportunities utilizing Dr. Payne’s work.  Please contact me (Kim Jonas) at 308.237.5927 ext 242 or kjonas@esu10.org for more information.

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