Overcoming the Poverty Mindset & Teaching Optimism

Schools serving low-income, marginalized communities tend to face similar and pervasive issues resulting from poverty. And, with the high levels of anxiety, fear and isolation that the pandemic has fostered, students in these communities are especially vulnerable. Yet, research has shown that the “Poverty Mindset” may be more to blame than actual economic conditions in these communities. Some people in low-income, minority homes are thriving in the current situation. The difference is that they demonstrate resilience, positivity and productivity. The Poverty Mindset makes it almost impossible for students to develop these critical Social-Emotional skills.

 This on-site training session will clarify misconceptions about poverty. You will discover what the Poverty Mindset is, why it exists and how it covertly impacts our students and our schools. Explore how optimism can change this pervasive mindset. Learn why optimism is critical to resilience and how to teach it. See how changing the Poverty Mindset and teaching optimism can change school climate and create equity.

Learning Objectives

• Understand misconceptions about race, class and culture
• See key components of the Poverty Mindset in student attitudes and behaviors
• Recognize underlying causes of negative beliefs and underachievement
• Discover techniques for teaching resilience, coping and thriving skills by fostering optimism
• Gain empowering strategies for addressing traumatic experiences and bridging the equity gap.