Different theories on social memory and representation perceive these modes of manifestation as socially constructed and collectively shared. The main objective of this article is to discuss the role of the school on the memory of adults and their children. Data were collected through interviews with 15 mothers and their respective daughters on their perceptions regarding the past, present, and future. The interviews showed that, in general, the school is represented by its positive aspects and is seen as an important tool to expand life options. On the other hand, social practices incorporate aspects of everyday life that do not include the school. These differences may be explained by the interviewees' socio-economic vulnerability, and also to inadequate pedagogical practices found in the Brazilian public school system regarding its policies aimed to avoid school dropouts.
Social memory; Education; Social exclusion
