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Opening of the First State-Funded Normal School
Prior to 1839 many teachers had completed only a common school education. Once normal schools were established teaching became a skilled and respected profession. The roots of today's educator preparation programs can be traced back to the normal schools. These programs ensure that educators are equally well prepared to provide quality public education, within established guidelines and expectations (Wimpey, 1959). -
Compulsory Education in Every State
Compulsory elementary schooling in all states ensured that all children had the opportunity to gain an education. Before this, many children did not attend school with any regularity. In today's public education system this has expanded to include secondary schooling. Alternatives to public education, such as homeschooling and private schooling are permitted, but all children must attend an educational program of some type which is approved by the state (The American Board, 2019). -
Brown v Board of Education
This landmark Supreme Court case was the catalyst for ending segregation in public schools. This began a major shift in race relations in the country. Initially this idea of integration was met with resistance, and was not well-enforced. Eventually this decision led to all children of all races gaining access to truly equal educational opportunities (Pruitt, 2018). Over time this led to the realization that all children, regardless of their differences deserved access to a quality education. -
"A Nation At Risk" is Published
This report opened the eyes of the public to the problems the public education system was facing, and how they were affecting America's standing in the world. The report highlighted "the nearly desperate need for increased support for the teaching of mathematics and science" (United States, 1983) which is seen today in the emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) curriculum at all grade levels. As a result, areas such as language and the arts were de-emphasized. -
No Child Left Behind
Considered "the most sweeping education-reform legislation since 1965" (PBS n.d.), this legislation aimed to improve the quality of public education for all students. It called for development of rigorous standards, standardized testing in grades 3 through 8, and creating a system to hold schools accountable for student achievement. It became evident that the results of all the increased testing had a negative impact in many ways, and it was replaced by the Every Student Succeeds Act in 2015.
