Some of these roles are the aim of public schools in a democracy, what kinds of curricula to implement, what skills and knowledge promote democratic behavior, and how learning occurs. These issues affect every teacher and student in the United States today. Upon closer examination, education is not a simplistic institution. The aims of public schools in a democracy are not to be the sole providers of education, but partners in education. This institution consists of the local school board, school administration, local, state, and federal governments, teachers, principals, parents, and most important, students.
Students are the only reason public schools function today.
Horace Mann s normal school still exists, but in a more complicated context. Education has evolved from colonial times in which schools were homogeneous, theocratic, institutions where a work ethic was promoted, to institutions that care about each student successfully learning the academic and social skills necessary for life. Therefore, to educate students in a democracy effectively, schools, students, and parents must realize the partnership that exists between each entity involved and schools are compelled to provide the same high quality education to all students. A high quality education should also provide knowledge and skills that promote democratic attitudes and behaviors. Public schools should provide students with a broad, liberal, and general education.