Pioneer concepts of American public education

Abstract

The obvious weaknesses in American public education are often played up by educators as well as by those persons outside the arena of public education. The writer believes it is urgent that the strengths of American public education be emphasized. Some have defended the education field with the arguments of the crowded classrooms, the shortage of teachers, the battle over books, the federal aid issue, the skirmishes over religion, the clarification of educational policies, et cetera. In view of the temper of the times, educator are in need of taking the offensive by playing up the following basic truths or living realities in American public education: Public schools are essential to democracy. Even a cursory survey of our heritage will quickly reveal that public consciousness for education is deeply rooted in America and is most essential to the well-being of the American people. The educational ideals of early leaders should never be lost to view in spite of politics, precedents, traditions, and adverse circumstances clouding these ideals to the point of obscurity at times. The ultimate public victory, however, must recognize George Washington's plea to promote institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge. In Washington's farewell address to the American people in 1796, he said: