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Old Deluder Satan Act: The Massachusetts Law of 1647
This law reflects the desire of the people to attain a more formal schooling. It mandated towns of certain sizes to hire a schoolmaster. With the hiring of teachers, people began to see education as a social responsibility. Formal schooling had entered the US and education “for all” was seen as a significant step in maintaining a stable society. Source -
Thoughts Concerning Education by John Locke
With this publication, John Locke set the wheels in motion for a more liberal curriculum. He articulated the correlation between self- governance and a well-educated population. It is here society begins to recognize that education is more than rote learning and punishment.Source -
Separation of Church and State idealized by Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson first used the words “separation between church and state” in his letter to New England Baptists. It was his summation of the First Amendment article 6. This set the stage for higher order thinking in students without the weighty consideration of religion. To this day, public schools still adhere this principle. Source -
Common School- Horace Mann
Known as “the father of American education,” Horace Mann, pushed for Common Schools. His actions were the culmination of the brewing societal ideals to bring education to all. The cornerstone of education today is directly reflective of his idea of a publicly funded education. He brought structure and a more equal education to the masses.Source -
Democracy and Education by John Dewey
This publication brought reform in education to the forefront of society. His advocacy for the "progressive education movement" sought to bring democracy into the classroom to empower students. His “hands-on” approach better engaged students in education. His pragmatic ideals led schools to be more predisposed to change and progress as seen in public education today.Source
