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Common School Era
In the late 1830s, Horace Mann proposed a system of education that would be free and universal. These schools would be for all children, regardless of their families' income and religious backgrounds. Schools would teach reading, math, and political/social ideals. -
The First Normal School
Since the Common Schools were founded with the students in mind, it was the next step to focus on who was teaching these children. The first Normal School in the US was founded in Lexington, Massachusetts. Normal Schools started as a 2-year program and "prided themselves on their thorough, cohesive, and 'scientific' curriculum," (PBS, Only A Teacher: Teaching Timeline). -
Unions Founded
The National Education Association was formed in 1857. Its main focus was and always has been ensuring better work conditions for teachers and improve the general school environment. Until around 1967, the NEA played an integral role in standardizing teacher training and curriculum. -
Brown vs. Board of Education
This Supreme Court verdict made segregation of schools unlawful. The ruling itself did not desegregate schools, but it strengthened the Civil Rights movement and allowed for legal backing for black students to begin desegregating schools. -
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act (Public Law 94-142)
This law is also known as the "Bill of Rights" for students with disabilities and their families. This bill forever changed how we view the education of students with disabilities. It includes 6 systems that improve the quality of their education and quality of life.
