Week 2, Blog #2: America's Public Schools

Some of the functions of the schools in the early 20th century was to present a chance for education and a better life, as America itself represents.  In the early 1900's millions of immigrants flocked to America seeking the good life. This made schools crowded, with a lack of space, dangerous and full of sick children. Even then only a small portion of children actually attended school, while the majority of other children opted to work in factories.

A couple decades later the number of children attending school had increased to approximately 50% and the average educational period was 5 years. However with the introduction of School and Society by John Dewey who offered the new development ideals of "Whole Development" moved schools towards a different, more hospitable place for children to develop socially and spiritually as well as academically. By the 1930's legislation was passed setting the foundation for the mandatory educational requirements we have in place today.  Attendance became a requirement until age 16. eventually. The Government funding of public education has also played a huge role in advancing the education system to today's standards. Fear that America was educationally behind the Soviet Union pressed the Government to step in and as soon as funding was pledged, schools immediately showed change. Advanced classes began to be taught and equal opportunity for education continues to be sought.

Education has always been the backbone of growth and prosperity in our nation. Now education is advancing to a lifelong process and not just focused on our nation's youth. Many older adults are also seeking to advance their education. Our school systems have become an important facet of shaping our lives , not just through childhood but by opportunity.  Through means of our justice system and establishing of rights, cultural bias has been close to eliminated and equal opportunity for education regardless of ethnicity, class and gender has been established.

Works Cited:

 As American as Public School: 1900-1950 (2000)