What are the equity implications of fundraisers that require students to sell items such as chocolate bars? Do you agree with Ms. Alexander’s concerns about how these fundraisers can alienate students experiencing poverty? Why or why not?

CHOCOLATE BAR FUNDRAISE

Questions
1 What are the equity implications of fundraisers that require students to sell items such as chocolate bars? Do you agree with Ms. Alexander’s concerns about how these fundraisers can alienate students experiencing poverty? Why or why not?

2 If the PTA members are intent on raising funds to support student activities or 35 make up for budget cuts, what are some ways in which they can do so that might not require students to compete with one another? How else might the PTA go about addressing the lack of funding for student activities? p.23

3 Ms. Torrence knew the concerns raised by Ms. Alexander and Mr. Cuertas would be drowned out by the voices of other meeting attendees who saw the chocolate bar fundraiser as a school tradition. Can you think of other examples of school
traditions that, despite being supported by many people, are biased against or inequitable toward some students and families?