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John Dewey: The Balance Between Subject-Centered and Child-Centered Curriculum
John Dewey's work has changed teaching and learning in public schools today. There is a consistent pursuit of the balance between subject-centered and student-centered curriculum. Similar to discussing the Philosophies of Education benefits can be seen within both types of curriculum. Continuing to strive for this balance in schools today will be to the benefit of our students. -
Brown v. Board of Education
Brown v. Board of Education was one of the early events that shaped K-12 Public Education today. Our country is diverse and education needs to continue to serve students from all backgrounds and government needs to continue to protect all students within our laws. Although Brown v. Board of Education allowed African American students access to education alongside white students we can still see segregation today based on socioeconomic status. -
ESEA and the Introduction of Federal Head Start Programs
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965 introduced federal Head Start programs as a means to reach preschool students from economically disadvantaged homes. Today there are still several opportunities for these children to have access to early education to help bridge the gap of inequality. Students in Head Start are able to build academic skills that prepare them for entering school. These skills need to continue to be built upon for our disadvantaged students to succeed. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
IDEA, which started as the Education for All Handicapped Children Act in 1975 was a major move forward in education. Today schools are focused on the best plan possible to help students with exceptionalities succeed. Students are provided with the support they need and are in their regular classroom with their peers as much as possible. Supporting students with special needs is a very important practice that needs to continue to be improved upon. -
No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)
In 2002 President George W. Bush signed the reauthorization of ESEA funds which is now called the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). NCLB was the first serious attempt in holding states, districts, and schools accountable for unequal achievement among different student populations. There is a need for this accountability to continue in schools today. Students of all backgrounds should be given the equal opportunities in school and equity must also come into play for our disadvantaged students.
