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The Colonial Period
During this time period, the idea of education began in Jamestown focusing on meeting the needs and ideals of King James and the English. The focus for education at this time revolved around the need to convert Natives to Christianity and stopping the French and Spanish attempts to convert Natives to Catholicism. This period also reflected the climate of the colonies such as agriculture in the south, religious students in the middle colonies and reading and writing in England colonies. -
The Establishment of the First High School: The Boston Latin Grammar School
Considered the first American high school. The Boston Latin Grammar School on serviced elite male members of society and focused on educating men looking to began a career in law or ministry. -
Establishment of the Academy of Philadelphia
Secondary academy focusing on math, navigation, astronomy, bookkeeping, and rhetoric. Unlike The Boston Latin Grammar School, the Academy of Philadelphia allowed eduction for girls. Students at this school were also allowed to choose from a list of offered courses which is also seen in our current secondary school system. -
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The Early National Period
The separate colonies combined forming the United States of America. Due to the different religions and ideals, this event led to the separation of church and state, state gaining control of educational practices, and the passing of the Land Ordinance. During this period, states began to establish policies that are still prevalent in our current school systems such as the selection of state-specific content, educational standards, testing, funding, and making sure federal laws are adhered to. -
Adoption of the U.S. Constitution
The U.S. Constitution was adopted which established the Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights stresses the concept of Freedom of Religion which has led to the removal of religious activities such as prayer and teaching from religious texts in schools. -
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The Common School Movement: The Rise of State Support for Public Education
The "Age of the Common Man" focused educational efforts on producing productive citizens that could tackle the issues of the time including the increase in jobs, crime, pollution, national economy, and politics. The time period also establishes a school tax so schools may be funded by the public, accepting various demographics, state-appointed instructional superintendents, grade-level curriculum and teacher preparation all of which are still implemented today. -
U.S. Government Begins Building Boarding Schools
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The Appointment of The Committee of Ten
This committee was established to set standards and curriculum for high schools. -
The First Junior High School was Established
Servicing students in grades seven, eight and nine, the junior high school trend quickly began to spread. -
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Technological Progression
As the creation and integration of technology increased, so did the styles of teaching, learning and assessing. During the 1930s projectors and film strips were integrated into school and over time has progressed into interactive smartboards. The introduction and advancements of calculators, computers, televisions and audio-visual tools have also led to the way in which many schools run. -
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The Modern Era
Beginning after World War II, an increase in the focus of both individual success and national progression is implemented. With this new outlook, the federal government began to play a more active role in the educational system. -
The Civil Rights Act of 1964
Prohibits racial, color, or origin-based discrimination in institutions receiving federal funds. -
From Junior High School to Middle School
In 1970, schools began to cater to grades six, seven and eight in order to better meet the development needs of students in this age group. -
Indian Education Act
Establishes Office of Indian Education -
Title XI of the Education Amendments
Based on sex, no one could be excluded or denied of preparation, benefits, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program. -
Individuals with Disabilities Act
Ensuring students with exceptionalities and disabilities have access to public education. -
Pregnancy Discrimination Act
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Creation of the Department of Education