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Period: to
History of American Education
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First higher education institution
The first higher education institution in what became the United States is established in Newtowne, Massachusettes. Named Harvard College, it remained there through present day in Cambridge, Massachusettes and is now a prestigious university. -
The Old Deluder Satan Act***
Also known as the Massachusettes Law of 1647, requires all towns with 50 or more families to hire a school teacher to teach reading and writing. -
New England Primer
The first New England Primer, which was the primary textbook across the Northeast, was printed in Boston. -
First "English Academy"
Benjamin Franklin helps establish what eventually became the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. The school had both a modern and classical curriculum. -
Land Ordinance of 1785
Western territories were to be divided into 640-acre plots. One of these plots was set aside for the maintainance of public schools. -
Massachusettes Public School Law
Towns of more than 500 families are required to have a public school open to all students. -
Department of Education***
Created to help states establish effective school systems. -
SAT
The first Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) is administered. To this day, the SAT is the main standardized test required for adminttance into most colleges. -
Higher Education Act
The Higher Education Act is signed, increasing federal aid for higher education and providing scholarships and student loans. The National Teachers Corps is also established. -
No Child Left Behind***
The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) is signed into law by President George W. Bush. This act increases student testing and requires schools to be accountable for student achievement; failure to meet NCLB goals results in penalties.