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The Colonial Period
This was the beginning of the American educational system. Colonials schools were formed and served primarily wealthy, white males. Schools were heavily influenced by local religions during this time period. -
Boston Latin Grammar School Established
This was the first American high school. Its purpose was to prepare boys for the ministry or a law career. -
Old Deluder Satan Act
Also known as the Massachusetts Act of 1647. This was the legal foundation for public support of education. Any town of 50 or more households was required to hire a reading and writing teacher. -
Academy of Philadelphia Opened
This secondary school served boys and girls and had no religious affiliation. Its curriculum focused on the practical needs of colonial Americans. -
Land Ordinance of 1785
Land was sold and the proceeds were used to support public education. -
U.S. Constitution Adpoted
The First Amendment called for the separation of church and state. The Tenth Amendment made states responsible for their own schools. -
Common School Movement
This was an attempt to make education available to all U.S. children. Led to the creation of taxes for support, state education departments, grade levels, standardized curriculum, and improved teacher preparation. -
English Classical School Established
This secondary school served boys who didn't have plans to attend college. -
First Compulsory School Attendance Law Passed
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The Committee of Ten Formed
This group was appointed to study high school curriculum and make recommendations about standards, programs, and methods. -
First Junior High Opened
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Cardinal Principles of Secondary Education Report Released
This report recommended that high school curriculum be broadened to meet the needs of all students and proposed different paths for different students. -
Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka
"Separate but equal" was overturned and segregation was no longer allowed in schools. -
War on Poverty
Beginning in the 1960's, this movement to eradicate poverty focused mainly on education: increased funding, development of Job Corps., development of the Department of Education, support for learners with exceptionalities, and the creation of national compensatory education programs. -
Civil Rights Act of 1964
This act prohibited discrimination against a student on the basis of race, color, or national origin in educational programs receiving federal funding. -
Funding for Title I Schools Began
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Head Start Program Began
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Title IX of Education Amendments of 972
This prohibited gender discrimination in educational programs receiving federal funding. -
Lau v. Nichols
It was determined that English Language Learners should be taught in their first language. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Passed
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Department of Education Founded
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No Child Left Behind Act
This act required states to have an accountability plan to ensure that all students acquire basic skills.
