Unlike in the United States, public school in Mexico is not free. Beginning in high school students have to pay for registration, tuition and fees, books, uniforms and transportation. Students in younger grades must pay for all school supplies, transportation and special activities.

In addition to these direct educational expenses, families face a variety of other barriers preventing their children from attending school and succeeding academically. Barriers can include a lack of academic support in the home, as well as the inability to meet basic needs such as food, shelter and access to medical care.