"Schools are successful only insofar as they reduce the dependence of a child's opportunities upon his social origins"
- James S. Coleman
About this Quote
This quote by James S. Coleman recommends that schools must be judged on their ability to provide equal opportunities to all kids, no matter their social background. He is indicating that a kid's chances should not be identified by their social origins, such as their family's wealth or social status. Instead, schools must aim to offer equal access to resources and opportunities for all kids, despite their social background. This could consist of offering access to quality education, after-school activities, and other resources that can assist kids reach their full potential. By doing this, schools can help in reducing the dependence of a kid's opportunities on their social origins, and produce a more equitable and just society.
"Did you know that nearly one in three children live apart from their biological dads? Those kids are two to three times more likely to grow up in poverty, to suffer in school, and to have health and behavioral problems"
"As we read the school reports on our children, we realize a sense of relief that can rise to delight that thank Heaven nobody is reporting in this fashion on us"
"Now we maintain that we cannot be afford to be concerned about 6 percent of the children in this country, black children, who you allow to come into white schools. We have 94 percent who still live in shacks. We are going to be concerned about those 94 percent"
"I wanted to escape so badly. But of course I knew I couldn't just give up and leave school. It was only when I heard my mom's voice that I came out of my hiding place"
"And before our current legislature adjourns, we intend to become the first state of full and true choice by saying to every low and middle-income Hoosier family, if you think a non-government school is the right one for your child, you're as entitled to that option as any wealthy family; here's a voucher, go sign up"
