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John Locke published "Some Thoughts Concerning Education"
This was not only the beginning of education in the United States but John Locke led the way to civil rights by believing everyone deserved education. Locke also was influential on how to teach children to be moral, a social person, have virtue, and wisdom. These things are just as important as the academic part of schooling. It's astounding that so early on in history these things mattered and shaped the way to teach students. In today's education these principals should still be followed. -
The First U.S. President, George Washington
This is an important part of history because the first United States President, George Washington wanted people to be educated. In order for American citizens to make good choices about who is elected they must be able to read and have the means to make educated choices. This was the beginning of how the government would be involved in making public education free. By 1850 public schools have become a reality in most northern states and soon other states followed. -
Created at Least 500 “Native Schools”
This is important in our history of education because it gave minority groups a chance to be educated. This was a small stepping stone that would lead to equal rights for Native Americans, African Americans and to all minority groups. Slaves would be free, schools would have to allow all students, and segregation wouldn't be allowed in public places. -
61 Colleges Admit Women
In 1880 no colleges let women attend but by 1860, 61 colleges admitted women to attend. This is a huge part of American education but was even bigger for equal rights of women. Before this girls and women were only taught how to be good wives, mothers, housekeepers, cook, sew, and domestic responsibilities. This opened many doors for women and they were allowed to have an education and careers beyond the household. In fact many women became teachers which was a male dominated career. -
Obama Joins the "Too Many Test Movement"
Recent education has been plagued by rigorous standardized testing. While some students do well testing many fail and test scores are plummeting. Yet American education still requires many tests throughout the course of schooling. Testing is also frustrating for teachers because it takes the enjoyment out of teaching. Even though Barack Obama isn't the President this movement could be the beginning of a change for the course for American education.
