“I Don’t Speak Poor”: Uncovering Social Class

Abstract

This chapter uncovers what young people know and understand about social class, and how it affects those who struggle with financial hardship in an affluent school district. Drawing heavily on case studies from middle and high school, this chapter shares what young people say about social class, the pressures that tie money in with popularity, and the ways in which schools stigmatize, and support, those who struggle financially.