-
“Ye Olde Deluder Satan” law
Courts established the "Ye Olde Deluder Satan" law requiring towns to have a teacher for reading and writing. The Puritans wanted to prevent children from being prone to foolishness and the temptations of Satan. Even though bible study is now limited to private religious schools, this law was significant because it initiated the need for standardized education. States control of education started as well, which helped create the moral and social responsibility for education today. (pg.105) -
First Public High School
The first public high school was created in Boston in 1821 by using taxpayer money to benefit young men by furthering their education. This opened up education to a larger group of students who were not necessary interested in a college education and expanded the curriculum to reading, writing, grammar, science, math, history and logic. The school was a foundation for making education accessible to all and the start of a structured curriculum for our public high schools. (pg. 122) -
Cardinal Principles Report
The Cardinal Principles report was a result of increased public high schools attendance which created a more diverse educational environment. Proponents recognized the need to create a broader scope of courses to appeal to varying skills, abilities and future interests. This established the groundwork for what we see in our high schools today. We offer core curriculum, but allow the flexibility of taking classes that interest the student and support their future pursuits. (pg. 142) -
Brown v. Board of Education
Brown v. Board of education desegregated our schools and allowed African American children to attend with white children. This allowed our schools to integrate students of all races and backgrounds allowing them access to an equal education. It is a standard we hold strong to in our public schools today which prepares all children for a successful democratic life. (pg. 151) -
No Child Left Behind Act
No Child Left Behind Act was signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2002. The act tied federal aid to school accountability for student performance. The goal was to remove inequity in our school systems where generally low-income and minority students were behind their wealthier counterparts. This act increased standards and accountability for teachers today and shifted toward standardized testing, both of which dramatically changed the way the classroom is run. (pg. 163)
