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Dame Schools
Dame schools became popular in the 1700’s and were the first source of Early Childhood Education. This was important because children who were not yet in town school, but still had a need to learn things like reading, writing, spelling, and counting were able to attend Dame schools for a fee. Prior to Dame schools children didn’t have a means of having this basic education taught to them, yet they were obligated to have the skills before age 8 when they entered the town schools. -
Land Grant Colleges
In 1802 the National Government began to grant each new state land to use to promote post-secondary education. This granting of land led to the founding of state universities nationwide. These state universities are still in use today, and continue to be federally funded. Because of the introduction of state universities, learners are able to attend state college and further their education in a multitude of ways resulting in lifelong careers. -
Common Schools
Horace Mann became the first secretary of education for the State Board of Education in 1837. His idea of having a common school where student of all genders, races, and classes was a vital turning point in education. This was the first time school was about having an overall sense of community and that education should be inclusive of everyone. Many people today still agree with Mann’s viewpoint of education being “the great equalizer”. -
Brown vs Board of Education
Brown vs Board of Education may perhaps be the most significant event in the history of education. The banning of segregation was one of the first major steps in the endeavor in getting education equal for all. Prior to this ruling schools ran by the thought that “separate but equal” was enough. This was surely anything but true. It was decided that the best way to form children into upright, kind, and honest citizens was by having all children attend the same schools. -
Public Law 94-142
Children with disabilities have a right to learn as well. When the Public Law 94-142 was established children with disabilities finally had a right to the education they needed and deserved. Children with disabilities were able to receive an education that was appropriate for them. Incorporating children with disabilities into the school setting is important for only for the child who is disabled, but also for all students to learn to be inclusive of all people.
