THE IMPACT OF RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS ON THE ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT OF LOW-SES STUDENTS

Schools have a function to qualify pupils for the job market. Schools are often criticized because they reproduce the socio-economic inequality within society. Pupils of lower social strata have learning deficiencies at the start of their school career which put them in an unfavorable position. From their social background, pupils have a different idea of function of education and their parents are less supportive to their children with regard to excellence in learning. If schools have a mission with regard to the amelioration of society (Dewey), what can they do to improve the situation of pupils who are most in need? Do religiously affiliated schools have a special mission for the poor and needy? And if they do, how is their record with regard to this mission? What are the strengths and weaknesses of religiously affiliated schools in this mission for the poor and needy?