As early as 1787, our nation's founders understood that a sustainable participatory democracy depended on the creation of a public school system to educate the public. John Adams, the country's second president, concluded this idea by saying: Considering its importance, it was forbidden to spend too extravagantly. ”
This meant a shift from individual responsibility, through private schools and religious education, to a more inclusive schooling for all, through “the obligations of government to its people.” The Founders believed, and rightly so, that a “public” education system would serve the needs of a knowledgeable, informed and active citizenry.
Later, education became a state obligation with support from local communities. But the plan continues to legislate inadequate funding and create inequalities its founders never imagined.
Racism and classism slowed this growth, as state and local governments sought to provide their citizens with a quality education (with minimal federal aid). It took many years for these practices to be legally abolished, but unfortunately, too many of them remain today.
Schooling as a government mandate remains controversial, especially at the federal level. Although presidents such as Eisenhower, Johnson, Carter, and Obama supported this principle. Interestingly, a constitutional amendment legalizing federal aid to public education was made by Jefferson in his 1806 year.
Some of our nation's leaders believe that the value of government-funded schooling is a common resource from which all can benefit, rather than that schooling is a private good available only to those with the necessary financial means. Some people have recognized and continue to recognize it as a good.
It is truly important that all students have equal educational opportunities and access to a quality education in safe, modern buildings21cent Goal of the century. Lack of state and local funding prevents these goals from being met. That's why we need targeted federal support that provides the funding needed to make these goals a reality for all students.
Federal involvement remains a source of conflict for many presidents and their political parties. For example, until President Johnson signed his Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, federal involvement in K-12 public education was minimal. This landmark act solidified Johnson's belief that “abundance of educational opportunity should be the goal of the nation.''
Meanwhile, President Reagan wanted public education to be free from federal involvement and tried to abolish the Department of Education, which would have cut off aid programs for many students and civil rights protections for many other students. will be discontinued.
A majority of Americans support the federal government increasing support for public schools. Without this funding, we will not be able to achieve the public schools that our founders and many presidents, including Joe Biden, envisioned.
