History of Public Education

Formal education in the United States found its roots in the 19th century with Jefferson being the first American leader to suggest a public school system. The fact that it is primarily the responsibility of the state is what makes the American Educational System different from that of other nations.

The Beginning of the Public Education System
Almost all states had passed laws requiring children to attend at least elementary school by 1918. Private schools were created by the Catholics, who were opposed to common schooling. Their decision was supported by the 1925 Supreme Court rule in Pierce v. Society of Sisters that states could not compel children to attend public schools, and that children could attend private schools instead.

High Schools
Founded in 1635, the Boston Latin School was the first publicly supported secondary school in the United States. One of the most striking developments in U.S. education during the 20th century was the rise in American high school attendance. During the 20th century, participation in higher or postsecondary education in the United States increased tremendously. Many land-grant colleges and state universities were established through gifts of federal land to the states for the support of higher education. Public education in the United States is the primary responsibility of the individual states rather than the federal government. Eventually, every state developed a department of education and enacted laws regulating finance, the hiring of school personnel, student attendance, and curriculum. To meet the vast majority of school expenses, Public schools have also relied heavily on local property taxes.

The school districts with similar procedures were consolidated into larger units, and the state assumed a larger share of responsibility for financing education. In 1940, local property taxes financed 68 percent of public school expenses, while the states contributed 30 percent. In 1990 local districts and states each contributed 47 percent to public school revenues. Very low academic achievement in public schools was reflected in a federal report published in 1983. Further centralization in the field of education has occurred due to the activities of the Federal Government. The federal commitment to improve and finance public schools expanded enormously when Congress passed the National Defense Education Act of 1958 and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. Since the 1950s, public policy toward education has addressed discrimination issues in education more than educational issues.

Of increasing concern to the federal government is the issue of equality in school districts. Because they were still favoring slavery, the southern states opposed the education of blacks. In the United States, even in the 1950's, segregation by race in public and private schools was still common. Segregation usually resulted in inferior education for blacks. Average public expenditures for white schools exceeded expenditures for black schools.

Teachers in white schools generally received higher pay than did teachers in black schools, and facilities in most white schools were far superior to facilities in most black schools. In Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, the Supreme Court unanimously ruled in 1954, that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. Women have also been much discriminated against in American schools. Though the History of Public Education has been shrouded in scandals, the education system now is as strong as ever.

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:According to the History Of Public Education which education commission is responsible for accrediting public schools?

A:The higher education commission is responsible for accrediting public and private schools in the US. This commission sets up curriculum formats and quality standards for educational services which are to be followed by all public and private schools. Accreditation is possible on the basis of region, subject area, profession, and degree program. It is important that public schools and private schools are accredited by the HEC.

Q:I want to study about the Establishment of public education. Can you tell me about the different program options?

A:If you want to study about the Establishment of public education, there are a number of degree levels and programs that will provide you the desired education. There are bachelor, master, doctoral, and certificate programs available in history of education. You can browse through our website to look at program options and find a suitable program.

Q:Can I study history of public school education online?

A:Yes, if you are interested in history of public school education, you can find a number of education related programs that are being offered online. You can browse through our website to find out the program options and select a suitable one. Online education normally follows the same curriculum as that of regular schools; only the method of instruction is much more convenient and flexible.

Q:Can you give me some tips to perform well in public education history online?

A:In order to perform well in public education history online, you will need to stay consistent and focused. It is advisable that you go regularly go through class lectures, take part in class discussions, ask questions from instructions, go through online readings, and keep distractions away while taking online classes. Self management and organization can help you a lot in attaining good grades.

Q:If you study the history of public education, to what time can it be traced back to?

A:The history of public education can be traced back to the 19th century. At first the local communities handled the funding for the schools and relied on taxes. The state gradually took on larger responsibility for making education more accessible. Slowly, the system evolved as the need for education was felt and a formal organized system was given shape.

Q:Is there any free public education history course?

A:You can search online to see if there are institutes offering free online programs in this area. Most schools charge a tuition fee for their educational services. If you are looking for a cost-effective method of learning, it is recommended that you go for an online program. You will not have to worry about purchasing textbooks or travelling to classes anywhere.

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