Chapter 7: Teaching Wealthy Children About Economic Inequality

The Sheridan School is an independent K–8 school tucked away in the posh northwestern quadrant of Washington, D.C. near several other elite private academies, embassies, homes worth millions of dollars, and high-end shopping. Most of the families sending their children to Sheridan come from upper middle or upper class backgrounds. Though a few children have a full scholarship and many receive at least some financial aid, the school’s existence depends on families being able to afford the $30,000+ annual tuition as well as any supplemental costs associated with fundraisers and extracurricular activities. What attracts many of these students is the school’s clearly stated commitment to progressive educational values and social justice. As a result, Sheridan’s teachers are constantly engaged in professional development to improve content knowledge, curriculum planning, and instructional practices that further the school’s mission.