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Horace Mann, first secretary of Massachusetts Board of Education
Through his position as the Secretary of the Massachusetts Board of Education, Mann persuaded the public for universal, nonsectarian free education. By organizing education into a unified school system and creating the normal school, he paved the way for national education as it is known today. -
Launch of Sputnik
When Sputnik launched, the perception was that the U.S. had lost ground to the Soviets in technological advancement. This threat to security prompted a focus on improved education through increased funding at all levels. This new focus and funding of technical and scientific education helped to spur growth in the educational system. -
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act.
Funds for development, materials, resources and support for low-income families began a commitment to equal access to quality education. This act also supported school libraries, preschool programs, and rural and special education. This act was key in providing education to a greater expanded segment of the population. -
Brown v. Board of Education
This decision reversed Plessy v. Ferguson, declaring that segregation of schools was illegal and violated the Equal Protection Clause. Although not immediate, this began the desegregation of public schools. Brown v. Board of Education was a significant first step in the road to equality in education. -
IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
This act guaranteed free public education to children with disabilities. By funding and overseeing early interventions and special education, the act was instrumental in opening opportunities to those previously denied. IDEA is also instrumental in giving the parents a voice in the education of their child as well.
