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The Separation of Church and State
The separation of the church and state, as covered in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, was a major turning point in American education. The separation banned state sponsored religion and therefore, religion and the state could no longer partner in education. This meant that instead of focusing on religion in the classrooms, varying subjects were introduced that proved to benefit students. This event also led the way to public schools that are free and common as we know them today. -
The Child Study Movement and Psychology
The child study movement, led by G. Stanley Hall, was one of the first steps towards teaching students based upon how they learn and how their minds work. This worked to change pedagogy in a way that used more effective methods. The movement emphasized children's complex learning needs that in turn require an adapted curriculum. This event, with the help of John Dewey, led to a progressive educational approach that lies between a student and subject centered education. -
Brown v. Board of Education
The Brown v. Board of Education was a Supreme Court case that ruled "separate but equal" as not being equal. African American students did not have equal educational opportunities. The case ruling allowed African Americans to attend desegregated schools where they would have access to the same resources and supplies as white students. Although the ruling came with its fair share of problems, the case was a breakthrough to providing equal educational rights for all students, regardless of race. -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act
The passing of the Education for all Handicapped Children Act meant that all disabled children would have access to a free and appropriate education. Under Law 85-926, support for special education teachers was authorized. This meant that children with disabilities would not be excluded from public schools and a proper education. Becoming the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in 1990, special education students receive the education and services that best serve them. -
The No Child Left Behind Act
NCLB was signed into authorization by President George Bush in 2002. The act, which used an accountability and assessment system, worked to provide equal achievement among various student populations, targeting minority students. Elementary students had notable achievement gains and a narrowing of the achievement gap between races. Strong improvements were made in reading and math skills. Though the act faced many challenges, the attempt to level unequal achievement made a lot of progression.
