GROSSLY MISUNDERSTOOD: How Two Low Socioeconomic Black Parents in the Rural South Perceive Their Involvement in Their Children's Education

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of low-socioeconomic Black parents living in the rural South regarding education. The study was designed to amplify the voice a marginalized community that is misunderstood regarding their children’s education. Using a detailed narrative design, I interviewed two single-parent families living in a Section 8 apartment complex to capture their perceptions of their children’s education. In this study, the participants were single mothers who expressed their desires and goals for their children. In addition, these mothers shared their backgrounds and experiences growing up and attending school, which shaped and molded their parental skills. The primary significance of this study is to provide information that will support educational leaders attempting to build relationships within the Black rural community in the South. This research can influence educational practices by serving as a reference for teachers to understand the various types of parental involvement. For research purposes, this study serves as a foundation for extended research throughout rural Southern communities to continue giving marginalized communities a voice regarding education.