1900's-1930's
Racial Segregation:
Racial segregation in schools was common, particularly in the South, and non-white students often had less access to education and attended for fewer years.
Post-War-Expansion
The post-World War II era saw a surge in the number of students, particularly due to the Baby Boom, placing strain on existing school systems.
Privacy Rights
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in 1974 gave students and parents control over their educational records.
Reading and Math
The more focused on subjects because of standardized testing
Phones in school
a new law (House Bill 1481) will ban students from using cell phones and other personal communication devices during the school day
Enrollment
Enrollment in schools grew, with more students attending both elementary and secondary levels.
Shortages in Staff
The war and its aftermath led to teacher shortages, with many educators leaving for higher-paying jobs in defense industries or the military.
Bilingual Education
The Supreme Court mandated bilingual education (English and Spanish) in a case involving two Texas school districts, recognizing language as a barrier to equal education
Technology
Covid-19
What made schools shut down?
Women
While women's enrollment in higher education increased, they often faced discriminatory practices and were viewed as primarily preparing for marriage and motherhood.
Federal Funding
The National Defense Education Act of 1958 provided federal grants and loans for college students, and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 directed federal funds to schools with high concentrations of low-income students
Funds
Tax reform measures, such as Proposition 13 in California, limited property taxes, a major source of school funding, leading to funding challenges for schools, according to Race Forward.
Early EdTech
The early 2000s saw the rise of learning management systems like Blackboard, making course materials accessible online.
AI
What is something that is taking over schools and makes students not actually dot their work
Education for College level
The number of colleges and universities grew, with state universities experiencing significant expansion.
The GI Bill
The Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944 (GI Bill) significantly expanded access to higher education for returning World War II veterans, transforming college campuses.
Test Scores
Standardized test scores for high school students declined compared to the previous decade, leading to concerns about an educational crisis
Evaluations
Teacher evaluations increasingly incorporated student test scores, sparking debate and leading to some states walking back these requirements.
What is SEL
Schools are prioritizing SEL to support student well-being and mental health, recognizing its importance for academic and overall success.
Great Depression
The Depression led to budget cuts, school closures, and increased reliance on children working to support their families, making education a less accessible option for some.
Curriculum Changes
There was a growing debate about the content of education, with some advocating for a core curriculum focused on Western civilization and others emphasizing more specialized and vocational training
Back-to-Basics
A "back-to-basics" movement emerged, emphasizing fundamental education, higher expectations, increased discipline, and reduced drug and alcohol use. It also highlighted the importance of parental involvement and teaching basic virtues.
No Child Left Behind
This 2001 federal law spurred an era of increased testing and accountability, aiming for all students to be proficient in reading and math by 2014. It mandated standardized testing and reporting on student performance, with consequences for schools failing to meet targets.
Teacher shortages and retention
Teacher shortages, particularly in certain subject areas, pose a major hurdle. Efforts are needed to attract and retain qualified educators.