"Poverty" is an uncomfortable word. Teachers are often unsure what to expect from kids from low-income households and what to do differently as a result. Well-known author and educator Eric Jensen points to seven differences that show up in school between low- and middle-income children. By understanding what they are and how to address them, teachers can help mitigate those differences. Difference 1--health and nutrition--covers the emotional, physical, and mental health supports that students need. Difference 2--vocabulary--makes it clear that without a growing vocabulary, kids are hesitant to take classroom risks. Difference 3--effort and energy--shows readers that kids won't invest much if the odds of success are low. Difference 4--hope and mind-set--accounts for the fact that when belief is lacking or hope is low, effort plummets. With difference 5--cognition--students may back off difficult tasks if they don't think they "have it." Difference 6--relationships--shows how impaired relational skills create discipline issues. And finally, difference 7--stress--speaks of the toxic effects on learning of anxiety and chronic stress. Teachers can help students succeed by understanding these seven differences and addressing them with purposeful teaching.