Research Simulation

The topic that I decided to research more in depth is poverty.  Poverty in general is a global issue, and threatens the development of children daily.  All too often the news presents stories regarding death, abuse, and neglect of children.  I see it daily in the school where I work and the community in which I live.  Poverty does pick a race, culture or gender to affect; it is an issue that needs addressed.  

I did come up with three sub topics to the poverty issue which are how poverty affects children cognitively, physically and academically.  I want to know if children can escape the stereotypes of poverty to become successful adults; if that is the case how and why do some children succeed where others do not.  

I have seen both sides of the fence, and the grass is not greener on one side.  I have worked in a high poverty, title 1 school and 93% free and reduced population school with 900 students and I have also worked in a school that was white collar, stay at home moms, and less than 5% free and reduced lunch ( the only reason there was even that amount of free and reduced lunch is because the school had open enrollment one year).  I have observed a huge difference in the children from school to school and I wonder what the cause is.  Quite often I wonder how many children or families use their economic stance as an excuse.  I am very torn on the subject and really am interested on the research studied effects of poverty.  

Thus far I have discovered that poverty is an issue and it does affect children, but to the extent to which it affects them is undetermined.  I would thoroughly appreciate any input or sources that anyone of my colleagues have deemed credible and reliable.  Please note I am not saying poverty is used as an excuse for unacceptable behaviors or failures, but these are the thoughts that I want to look into.