Class Consciousness
Leveling the playing field in a public high school can be challenging. While many students may feel uncomfortable reaching out for help, CCHS has many resources to assist students facing financial difficulty. Photo courtesy of Getty Images.
Let’s face it, not all students are on a level playing field when it comes to their financial status; however, socio-economic status should never be a topic used to make a peer feel embarrassed (despite it being considered a taboo topic). Even at school, people cannot escape social class. Whether it’s the type of clothes they wear or the type of phone they have, students may feel less than others because of such. Since Calloway is a county school, there is a greater diversity of students. Students can be from a big two-story house in Canterbury, or they could live in a small two-bedroom trailer out in New Concord.
Within this variety of socioeconomic life, many students may feel out of place or even feel left behind. This “left-behind” notion is through the lack of options for those who are financially challenged. The article How Does Social Class Affect Education? on reference.com, states, “Social class affects education because the people who are in lower social statuses are not able to afford a premier education…” This is noticeable through the amount of students after high school who do not go to college due to the cost of tuition. This idea is also backed up by lumenlearning.com’s article The Impacts of Social Class, it reads, “…tangible advantages are associated with high socioeconomic status.” Alongside educational disadvantages, students are also faced with mental struggles throughout their school life. Adolescents often take their materialistic possessions for granted, and may begin showing them off in class or even complaining about miniscule financial issues. This may seem like an average topic for some; however, it can be a touchy subject for those less fortunate. Depending on a student’s clothes, phone, and even shoes, they could be singled out or seen as “poor” by peers.
With this said, be wary of comments towards others. Also, there is nothing wrong with using The Harbour here at Calloway to obtain material you may need for class, or clothes. According to Harbor Service Coordinator Mrs. Hayes, “We are open to everyone and have the capability to serve in many different capacities. Yes, we definitely help with basic needs, but we also help students find jobs, housing, and transportation.” The Harbour also provides opportunities for students to learn more about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and drug abuse. While many may feel uncomfortable reaching out for help, the Harbour is a wonderful resource, willing to work with any student.
