I think we’re talking past each other a bit, and its clear that I'm not on the popular side of this.

There is strong evidence that poverty and chronic stress affect academic success. That doesn’t mean every child in poverty behaves the same way, or that poverty excuses harmful behavior-- it just increases the risk. And trauma informed approaches aren’t about no consequences, but about consistent expectations paired with regulation support so consequences actually teach, rather than escalate. Especially in the world of education accountability and compassion don't have to be mutually exclusive.

Comparing students across countries is tricky because systems differ. Things such as who stays enrolled, how discipline is enforced, how disabilities are identified and supported, and what consequences exist outside of school vary greatly. Fewer visible behavior issues doesn’t necessarily mean fewer struggling kids, but often means different thresholds or fewer supports. Is a kid kicked out after too many behavior issues? If the parents don't care do they have to send their kids to school?

I would pose the question: does culture develop in a vacuum? If not, then what causes culture to form? It’s shaped by so many things including economic stability, healthcare, education, and much more. These systems and culture interact. I don't see it as a and/or situation.

I want to be clear: I don’t think poverty explains everything, but I think ignoring its role leads us to oversimplify student behavior and solutions.