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First 'Normal School' opens in Massachusetts
When Horace Mann, 'The Father of American Education', was appointed Secretary of Education he created the first 'normal school' which held the view that education should be public and widely available. (Films Media Group, 2006) This to be important as it set the stage for what public school is now; members of the community are encouraged to further their education without financial constraints. Without this pivotal step, education would be reserved for only the wealthy. -
National Teachers Association Founded
The goals of founding this association were to "elevate the character and advance the interest of the teaching profession and promote the cause of public education" (Films Media Group, 2006). This was incredibly important because to this day the organization still exists as a union called the NEA. Unions are pivotal when it comes to improving teacher wages, benefits, and working conditions across the entire profession. -
The Kalamazoo Case
In Kalamazoo, MI a highschool was opened using property taxes, which was then fought and taken all the way to the Supreme Court before being upheld. (Films Media Group, 2006) This was very important as it helped set the standard for our current public school systems being supported by taxpayer money which allows for free public access to members of the community. This is a huge step when it comes to providing equity and allowing education to be the great equalizer. -
Scopes Monkey Trial
In 1925 ACLU offered to defend any teacher wanting to challenge the rule that only fundamental Christianity was allowed to be taught in high schools and teach Darwinian Evolution. (Films Media Group, 2006) Although the teacher was found guilty, later another similar case was overturned in Arkansas and paved the way to the curriculum we know today. This was essential in allowing science-based education and true recognition of the separation of church and state. -
Brown v. Board of Education
This court case decided that schools could not segregate students based on race, stating that it "generates a feeling of inferiority" (Films Media Group, 2006). This court case is arguably one of the most important cases relating to education as it allows all students, regardless of the color of their skin, the same access to education. Without this, schools today would be unrecognizable and wealth distribution would be at an even bigger deficit than it is today.
