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The Smith Hughes Act
Thanks to the Smith-Hughes Act of 1917, courses that teach a range of basic to advanced life and work skills are offered in public schools. Students who struggle, or simply lack interest, with traditional academic subjects typically benefit greatly from vocational learning being incorporated into their general studies since it introduces them to potential technical career paths. -
Cardinal Principles Report of 1918
The adoption of curricular ideals defined within the Cardinal Principles Report has promoted both unity and individualism within the realm of public education. Modern day curriculum requires all students to take the same core classes, but also gives them freedom through elective courses that allow them to determine what they want to get out of their education. Having a school counselor to help guide and teach students about career paths is also now a common concept in public education. -
Brown v. Board of Education
This court case was a pivotal event for the public education system because it was the first successful measure towards legally desegregating schools. Slowly but surely, society has become more colorblind than ever before and students of all races and ethnic backgrounds are able to enjoy the fruits of education equally and harmoniously. -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act
This Act bridged yet another gap of inequality within the public education system—bringing it one step closer to becoming the great equalizer. Special education teachers are now a norm within schools and make it possible for students’ with varying disabilities to receive a specialized education that allows them to learn alongside their normally developing peers, but also at a pace appropriate to their cognitive abilities and needs. -
No Child Left Behind Act
This act has influenced modern public education by reverting the structure back to a more traditional approach and by placing a higher emphasis on standardized testing to track the progress of students, so that schools and teachers are held accountable for the quality of education they are providing. The bar has also been raised for teacher certification standards and professional development training requirements to ensure good quality educators within the realm of public education.
