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The Common School Movement
Led by Horace Mann, this movement aimed to provide free public education for all children, regardless of social class. Advocates believed education was essential for democracy and economic opportunity. The movement led to the establishment of state-funded schools and teacher training programs. While it expanded access to education, many schools remained racially segregated and unequal. The foundation laid by this movement shaped the modern public school system. -
Plessy v. Ferguson
The Supreme Court’s decision established the “separate but equal” doctrine, legalizing racial segregation in public facilities, including schools. Homer Plessy, a mixed-race man, challenged Louisiana’s segregation laws. The ruling upheld segregation, reinforcing racial discrimination in education. Black students were forced into underfunded and substandard schools compared to their white counterparts. This decision stood until it was overturned by Brown v. Board of Education in 1954. -
Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka
This case ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, overturning Plessy v. Ferguson. The Supreme Court unanimously decided that separate educational facilities were inherently unequal, violating the 14th Amendment. This ruling paved the way for desegregation, though many schools resisted for years. The decision also sparked backlash, leading to protests and delays in implementation. -
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act
This act provided federal funding to schools serving low-income students (War on Poverty, President Johnson). It aimed to close the achievement gap by improving educational resources and supporting disadvantaged children. The law introduced programs like Title I, which still exist today to assist underfunded schools. However, critics argued that funding distribution varied, and some schools benefited more than others. The act marked a turning point in federal involvement in education policy. -
Title IX of the Education Amendments
Title IX was enacted to prohibit sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs. The law significantly impacted school athletics by requiring equal opportunities for male female students. It also extended protections against sexual harassment/discrimination in schools. Some critics argued it led to budget cuts in men’s sports programs to meet compliance requirements. Despite challenges, Title IX remains a critical foundation for gender equity in education. -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act
This law ensured that children with disabilities had access to free and appropriate public education. The law required schools to provide individualized education plans (IEPs) and necessary support services. It later evolved into the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), strengthening protections. While the act improved accessibility, some schools struggled with funding and resource allocation to meet the new requirements. -
Plyler v. Doe
The Supreme Court ruled that states can't deny free public education to kids based on their immigration status. The case arose in Texas, where a law sought to withhold education funding for undocumented immigrant children. The Court decided this violated the 14th Amendment, as education is essential for social and economic participation. Result? All children regardless of citizenship, gained access to public education. However, the ruling led to political controversy over immigration policies. -
No Child Left Behind Act
This law aimed to improve student performance through standardized testing/accountability measures. Schools were required to meet specific benchmarks, or they risked losing federal funding. While the act intended to close achievement gaps, it led to criticism over excessive testing its impact on teaching methods. Many educators felt pressured to teach to the test rather than focusing on broader learning. In 2015, it was replaced by the Every Student Succeeds Act.