What is the purpose of schools?

The Purpose of Schools

    The concept of school has changed over time. A few hundred years ago (and possibly even sooner), men were the main focus in the school system. They were to be taught basic information and then would proceed to learn about religion as that is what was important during that time period. Women were taught the importance of sewing and cooking as they were considered the homemakers that were expected to manage the home. Noah Webster, who made the American Spelling Book, considered education to be a vital part of American freedom. Even when woman would teach in school in the mid to late 1800s, they would typically have to report back to a man. This shifted when women considered teaching as a part time job and a path to marriage. It was simply easier to have a women in the position due to cheaper labor.

    Nowadays, teaching is considered an important part of society in certain parts of the world. For example, Switzerland has some of the highest paying teaching jobs that require a high number of qualifications to obtain. There is still an underpayment of teachers in the United States but most teachers do not enter the career for the money. Teachers enter schools not only to create an impact on students that they may not have experienced themselves, but also to create a group of amazing individuals. When I was in school we were told that school was going to make us amazing leaders and maybe even doctors. We were going to be the greatest the world has ever seen. While that may be true, I truly believe that the purpose of schools is to not only teach children vital knowledge to thrive in today's society, but to also create a group of compassionate and kind individuals that will change the world in their own unique ways.