About Public Schools

This second in my series of articles about K-12 segregation covers The Jim Crow Era from 1877 to 1954, a dark time in American history characterized by widespread racial segregation and discrimination. This essay explores the historical context of the Jim Crow Era and its impact on K-12 education. By analyzing the policies, legal decisions, and struggles faced during this era, we can gain insights into the challenges and resilience of individuals and communities in the fight for educational equality.

Step back in time and delve into the dark period of American history known as the Jim Crow era, where racial segregation pervaded all aspects of society, including education. We'll look into the segregated schooling system that existed during this time, examining the disparities faced by African-American students. Explore the historical context, discriminatory policies, and the impact on educational opportunities for marginalized communities. Uncover the struggles, resilience, and pivotal legal battles that ultimately paved the way for progress in dismantling segregation. Gain insights into the enduring legacy of this era and its implications for the fight for educational equality in the present day.

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Legalization of Racial Segregation

Plessy v. Ferguson and "Separate but Equal"

The Supreme Court's 1896 decision in Plessy v. Ferguson established the "separate but equal" doctrine, endorsing racial segregation in public facilities, including schools. This ruling legitimized the practice of segregated education.

Plessy v. Ferguson was a landmark Supreme Court case decided in 1896 that solidified the "separate

Segregation in K-12 education has been a persistent issue throughout American history, with its roots tracing back to the Colonial Era.

• This essay examines the origins of segregation in K-12 education during that time and explores the differential treatment experienced by Native American, African American, and white students.
• By exploring the historical context and citing relevant sources, we can better understand how educational disparities based on race and ethnicity were established and perpetuated.

Origins of Segregation in K-12 Education

• The establishment of formal education in the American colonies laid the foundation for the early seeds of segregation.
• Native American and African American students were systematically excluded from the educational opportunities provided to white students.

Latin Grammar Schools and Exclusion of Non-White Students

• The Latin Grammar Schools, prevalent in the Colonial Era, primarily served white male students of privileged backgrounds.
• Native American and African American students were systematically excluded from these institutions due to societal norms and discriminatory practices.

Lack of Formal Education for Native American Children

• Native American children faced limited access to formal education during the Colonial Era.
• Instead, they were often educated within their tribes or subjected to assimilationist boarding schools that aimed to eradicate their cultural identities.

Denial of Education for Enslaved African Americans

• Enslaved African Americans were denied access to education through deliberate policies and slave codes.
• Education was seen as a threat to the institution of slavery, with laws prohibiting the education of enslaved individuals.

This video offers an overview of Colonial-era schools.

For individuals unable to earn a traditional high school diploma, the General Educational Development (GED) test offers a second chance to acquire a recognized credential. Over the past decade, the GED has undergone significant changes and revisions, aligning it with modern educational standards and enhancing its relevance in today's job market. Here, then, is a comprehensive overview of the transformations in the GED test, empowering individuals of all ages to make informed decisions about pursuing this alternative pathway to education and career success. I can personally attest to the importance of the GED as one of my children, who we homeschooled, passed the GED examination.

Transformations to the GED

The Transition from GED 2002 to GED 2014

In the early 2000s, the GED 2002 series was replaced by the GED 2014 series. This transition aligned the test with the evolving educational landscape, particularly the Common Core State Standards. The GED 2014 series emphasized critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world applications, ensuring that test-takers were prepared for the challenges of higher education and the workforce.

Computer-Based Testing

One of the significant changes in the GED test was the adoption of a computer-based format—this shift from the traditional paper-and-pencil test allowed for a more interactive experience. Test-takers could navigate through questions, receive immediate feedback, and complete the test at their own pace. Additionally, computer-based testing facilitated faster delivery of test results, enabling individuals to move forward with their education and career plans more efficiently.

Subject Area Revisions

The GED

As the education landscape evolves, it is essential to examine different schooling options and understand their strengths, weaknesses, and overall impact on students' educational experiences. In this article, we will compare three primary education models: charter schools, traditional public schools, and private K-12 schools, concerning governance and funding.

Charter Schools

Charter schools are publicly funded schools that operate under a charter or contract, which grants them increased autonomy and flexibility compared to traditional public schools. Individuals, organizations, or groups typically establish charter schools with a specific educational vision or focus.

Charter schools are independent public schools free to innovate while being held accountable for improved student achievement. They foster a culture of creativity, flexibility, and autonomy that allows teachers and school leaders to design and implement effective educational models tailored to the needs of their students. - National Alliance for Public Charter Schools

Governance Structure

Charter schools usually have their governing boards responsible for making important decisions regarding curriculum, budget allocation, hiring, and overall school policies. These boards can include parents, community members, educators, and experts from various fields. The thin governance structure allows for more localized decision-making. It promotes flexibility in responding to the needs of students and the community than is possible in an administration with more layers of management.

Flexibility in Curriculum and Management

One of the key features of charter schools is their flexibility in designing their curriculum and educational approach. Charter schools can develop specialized programs,

I was disappointed to read the story in the New York Times about abuse in an Army JROTC program. Why? Because I've always thought very highly of the program available in over 1700 public and private high schools. I will further disclaim that my eldest daughter was in the ROTC program at MIT while she was at Harvard. So, I know first-hand that it is well-run for the most part. The JROTC does an immense amount of good for young people at the high school level.

What is JROTC?

Congress established the JROTC or Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps in 1916. Each branch of the services has its own distinctive JROTC program. However, they all have the altruistic-sounding mission "To Motivate Young People to be Better Citizens."

The U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) is one of the largest character development and citizenship programs for youth in the world. Source: JROTC

• Some people think that JROTC is a recruiting program for the military.
• But it is not. Indeed, most JROTC participants do not join the military after graduating from high school.
• Nor are they required to do so.
• On the other hand, the college-level ROTC programs do require their participants to sign up for a tour of duty after graduating from college.
• Simply put, the JROTC aims to develop leadership skills in its participants while ROTC prepares its members for the military.

This video explains