When a school administrator is overwhelmed by the failing grades of its students, there are several factors that should be investigated. Observing the teachers’ performance is usually the first step. Yet, in Joan McRobbie’s article “Why Poverty Matters in the School Failure Debate,” it is mentioned that poverty contribute to failing schools in certain areas. McRobbie discusses that, although it is important to have well-qualified teachers, the center of the problem is often overlooked, even presented as an “excuse” rather than a concerning issue. Tackling a problem like poverty is a significant task but that does not mean it should be ignored. Poverty influences a child’s academic success because it deprives the students of crucial elements
