Why did the conditions at Lowood Institution go unmentioned for so long?- Jacob M.

This is a question that has been bothering me as I read. I can see how a dreary setting adds interest to the book, but how were these children allowed to live under such conditions? Lowood is a place where children are punished for simple acts of being imperfect, such as forgetting to tidy their drawers, or for dropping a slate. Faculty at Lowood are reprimanded for providing proper nourishment. Mr. Brockelhurst is a rich man. He may not have enough money to support Lowood out of his own pocket, but his money means that he could influence others to make donations to the school. I am thankful that the conditions improve eventually. Looking back, why didn't the staff try to change things? Why did change take so long to arrive?