A reflection on the elephant in the classroomGentrification is the transformation of run-down neighborhoods into more prosperous neighborhoods through the renovation and reconstruction of homes and schools. Many large cities in the United States have “the unique opportunity to create large numbers of racially and socioeconomically integrated schools.” (Stillman, 2013, p. 37) This article discusses the effect of gentrification by predominantly white, upper-middle class, highly educated family groups on several urban schools that primarily serve the poor and minorities. Before reading this article, I considered this a fabulous opportunity that many people would be excited about and have high hopes for. If a group of people tried to contribute to improving a neighborhood, together with its educational context, the result could only be positive. I was right about gentrification being an opportunity that many people were excited about. Although many gentrification lords were initially enthusiastic about the undertaking, once they entered the integrated context, reality set in and many things occurred....