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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]After reading through several threads laying out the debate for and against pods from the equity lens, I have started applying it to other things I am getting my kids for distance learning. Looking for some honest thoughts from people who are genuinely grappling with/concerned about the issues of equity and distance learning.

For instance, I can afford to buy my kids laptops which will work better than the old Ipad and Iphone we let them use last spring. I think this is a need for a long term solution to distance learning and we will not qualify (nor would we ask) for district provided computers. We are also considering getting them each a desk for their rooms. Something we imagined we would buy when they were in Middle School but are willing to get now- again, because we can afford to.  Beyond that, we want to get them their typical supplies and possibly some extra games/activities that might complement the distance learning. We have not considered Pods as an option.

On the one hand, these things seem sort of necessary for our family because with two working parents we need the kids to be set up somewhere quiet/away from us. Sharing devices was miserable and the small devices did not function as well.

On the other hand, I am feeling bad about the issue of equity. I know that it is only because of my privilege that we are able to do this for our kids and I worry about what that means. Regardless of what I do, there are huge equity issues at play during this time.  So what responsibility do we, as individuals have. At what point do we cut ourselves off from "opportunity hoarding."  If Pods are controversial, shouldn't these things (computers, desks, supplies, etc) also be controversial? Where do we draw the line?[/quote]
Let's not pretend that there has ever been any sort of equality in education, opportunity or anything else. Wealthy kids with parents invested in their success are always going to have an advantage over poor kids, kids whose families don't care, neglected, malnourished and abused kids. Of course, isn't that kind of the point? There is no real controversy about wanting your kids to be successful. Do the best you can. If you can help someone else, that's good too.[/quote]

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