Evasão escolar e desigualdade educacional: reflexões a partir da realidade de uma escola no Tocantins

Abstract

The research analyzed the role of social workers in reducing school dropout rates and promoting educational equity among students in elementary school. The strategy included a history of education in Brazil, highlighting the progress and constant obstacles, in addition to emphasizing education as a basic right guaranteed by the 1988 Constitution. It was found that aspects such as socioeconomic inequality, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of effective public policies directly affect students' continuity in educational institutions. School dropout reflects social disparities, perpetuating cycles of exclusion and restricting future opportunities, particularly in areas such as the North and Northeast. The study also highlighted the impact of structural racism, the privatization of education, and the conditions of teachers in this context. Participant observation carried out at the Onesina Bandeira State School, in Miracema do Tocantins, from 2023/2 to 2024/2 exposed real obstacles to explain the school dropout rates that students face, including financial issues, family conflicts, and a lack of future prospects. The role of the social worker in the institution was identified as a crucial factor in welcoming and retaining students, but the need for a joint effort between the school, community and more effective public policies to guarantee education as a social right was reinforced. The study concluded that tackling school dropout requires integrated strategies, including improvements in the education system, support for families and actions to reduce social inequalities, ensuring that more students have access to continuous and quality education.