Parental Perceptions of Economic Diversity in Schools

• In Event: 41.083 - Roundtable Session 15
  In Roundtable Session: 41.083-10 - Ecological Perspectives on School Culture and Climate in Socioeconomically and Ethnically Diverse Contexts

Abstract

In this study we examine parental perceptions of school integration by economic background.  Using a nationally representative survey sample, we show that parents express support for economic integration in schools, but that their support lessens as the likelihood that the integration affects their own children increases.  Preliminary findings from qualitative data from focus groups and interviews with more economically privileged parents suggest that parents are most concerned that economically integrated schools will compromise the quality of their own children’s academic and educational opportunities.  Implications point to the need for policymakers to consider the resistance of more economically privileged parents when designing and implementing school integration efforts.  Additional qualitative research with lower income parents is needed to further inform policy decisions.

Authors

• Luba Feigenberg

• Joe McIntyre, Harvard University

• Eric Torres

• Sarah Bruhn, Harvard University

• Richard J. Weissbourd, Harvard University