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Jefferson’s Ideal
Thomas Jefferson was an idealist. He had a dream to establish publicly supported education in America. He created an elaborate plan to make education possible for every every American citizen. He also held the idea to provide an education through university for those who were the most talented, but couldn’t afford it. Jefferson saw the school structure in four levels, including elementary schools, secondary schools, university and life long learning. Jefferson considered this plan one of his most important accomplishments.
An education for every American citizen
Has the United States achieved Jefferson’s ideal? Though the educational system isn’t perfect, the country has made remarkable changes to move toward Jefferson’s plan for the idea educational system. Education is now possible for each and every citizen. The past is riddled with different forms of discrimination, such as exclusivity due to social status, segregation in schools and gender inequality. Over the last few centuries, the country has been able to accommodate every American citizen and offer them an education.
Universities for talented students
Students who received good marks in school were likely to receive a scholarship to a university. Those who were underprivileged and achieved good marks, were also likely to have college paid for partially or in full by a grant or a scholarship.
Structural similarities
Jefferson’s ideal educational structure also is similar to today’s modern educational system. Children typically begin at elementary schools, graduate into secondary schools and have the option to continue onward into a university. Life long learning can be acquired at community classes or may allude to graduate school programs themselves.
Manifested dream
Jefferson had every right to believe that his educational plan was one of his most important accomplishments. His dream manifested a couple of centuries later and still holds the potential to reach the ultimate ideal, as long as the country continues to progress in a variety of ways.
