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EDUCATION IN THE COLONIAL PERIOD
MOST IMPORTANT This was first formation of universal public education in America. What started out as a religious necessity, education grew to be a fundamental principle of American citizenship. Being an American meant being educated, a principle that is still upheld today. Education in Colonial Time Video
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Common Schools
During this period state systems were established, therefore states began to have control over their public education, resulting in taxation for schools. The idea that all, poor rich, farmers, aristocrats, could receive an education was a driving force for common schools. -
Noah Webster
Noah Webster was the author of dominating readers and spelling books that first shaped American education. While the nation's founders were seeking political independence, Webster sought cultural independence. His goal was to create an American education rid of European influence. -
Population Growth and Immigration
During this time, America was being filled with immigrants from all over the world, bringing their children with them. The American Dream was one of education and a better future. Schools were filled with students of different ethnicity, nationalities, backgrounds and even languages. -
SECONDARY SCHOOL MOVEMENT
MOST IMPORTANT Due to the growing population, industry, and economy there was a demand for skilled workers and therefore a practical education. There was a need for free public education after elementary age, beside academies, which required a fee for enrollment. Because of the growing society, the economy provided a greater tax base to expand the education system, specifically to secondary education. More on the Movement -
Committee of Ten
The Committee of Ten was formed and made up of a group of educators who recommended the standardized school curriculum. Because of the social variety in public schools, there was a need for standardization. Schools needed courses that offered immediate and useful vocational training, for both college bound and terminal students. -
PROGRESSIVE REFORM MOVEMENT
MOST IMPORTANT The Progressive Reform Movement was driven by the idea of making the child the center of education. Francis Parker believed that 'learning should emanate from the interests and needs of the child...the most appropriate curriculum was activity based and encouraged children to express themselves.' Schools introduced a variety of studies, field trips, and social activities.
Progressive Education -
John Dewey
During the Progressive Reform Movement, John Dewey was the one to promote the idea of individual growth and preparation for participation in American society through education. He focused on the child as a whole, with intellectual, social, emotional, and physical needs and capabilities. -
CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT
MOST IMPORTANT During the Civil Rights Movement, public school was being made available to everyone. Cases and acts like Brown vs. Board of Education and The Civil Rights act of 1964 prohibited discrimination of race in schools, activities and programs that were federally funded. Students who were walking miles to segregated schools, could attend school close to home.
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Brown vs. Board of Education
This supreme case ruling banned segregation from public schools across America. This provided all students of all races and equal education, in equal facilities, with equal opportunities. -
War on Poverty
President Lyndon B. Johnson, a former teacher of underprivileged students, was at the forefront of this movement. He believed that and equal chance of education meant an equal chance at life. He helped pass many laws to help educate those in poverty including the provision of low cost college loans, programs, and and training. -
Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act
Before this act, many individuals with disabilities, mental, physical, or emotional, were placed in state institutions. As little as 1/5 of people with disabilities were attending or even allowed in school. This law changed how people with disabilities were identified and educated. This act provided free, public, appropriate (least restrictive) education for those with disabilities. -
A Nation at Risk Report
Classified as a 'learning crisis', this report stated that as a country, because of the poor quality of our schools and unsuccessful students, we were failing to achieve excellence. -
THE STANDARDS MOVEMENT
MOST IMPORTANT As a result of the 'Nation at Risk Report' President Ronald Reagan called for an educational reform. The bar for educational success was set and standards were raised. School days were lengthened and school years were extended. High school became preparation for college.
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School Choice Movement
Public education was being offered to a wider proportion of the population, and as a result academic achievement was declining. Public schools were viewed as a government monopoly and there was a lack of competition. That was until Alternate public schools were created. These alternate schools offered a variety of specialties and emphasis's.
