The Jackson standard. [volume] (Jackson C.H., Ohio) 1847-1888, 1857-02-19
The Union School.

On Monday last, in company with the gentleman
ly Superintendent, wo visited the several depart
ments of our Union School.
The classification is not yet fully completed; but
that our friends in the country may have some idea
of tho plan of organization, and the manner in
which the several branches of the school are con-
Quoted, we will briefly notice what we saw, and the
impressions derived therefrom.
The school at present, is divided into five depart
ments. The Primary department is composed of
little boys and girls, apparently from five to seven
years of age, most of whom commenced with the
Alphabet Each pupil has his own seat, with box
between him and the next pupil. In this box he
keeps his book and has the number of his seat
painted on the top. These boxes eectually prevent
the pupils from crowdiug each other.
1t was formerly thought by some, that any person
could teach small children; but those accustomed to
teaching, know that first impressions most last
ing and that it is all important to commence aright
and that the very best teachers ought to have charge
of the Primary department in all schools.
Taking this view of the subject, our Board have
evinced their good sense by placing this department
of the school under the care of Miss Mary NJ Miller
a thorough and accomplished teacher. We never
seen better discipline than that exhibited by these
children; and the fact that many of them who com
menced with the alphabet, are already spelling in
two syhbles, shows that their advancement has
been most rapid.
The next department is under the care Of Mrs.
Lucretia W. Hoffman, who also maintains the very
best order. Here we see the little folks commencing
to read and write. The seats are arranged the same
way in this, as in the Primary department. We
can say, from twelve years experience in teaching
that we believe Mrs. Hoffman to be one of the very
best of teachers.
The next department in order, is under the car
of Mrs Emily F. 7 ord. Here we observe greater va
riety among the pupils, as to size and appearance
The good order maintained in the other depart
ments, is also observed here. As Writing and Geo
graphy are taught here, different kind of seat is
used, having desk in front. Mental Arithmetic
is taught here to perfection. Mrs. Ford has es-
tabliShed reputation as teacher, which renders it
unnecessary to say that she is fully competent to
the task in which she is engaged.
The next department in order, is under the care of
William A. Walden, young man whois doing him
self great credit by the manner in which he is con-
Quoting his department Here find those who are
farther advanced in Arithmetic, Geography and
Grammar Mr.. Walden, in addition to fully under
standing the branches which be is toaching possess
es the faculty Of concentrating instruction in a
mo n nor thot his y,,,i1e On y, on,nppahand
Last of all is the High School, under the charge
of J. W. Longbon, the Superintendent. Here the
higher branches are taught.
The selection Of this gentleman as Superinten-
dent is most appropriate. He has been earnestly
engaged in the cause of education for years; is
thorough scholar and rigid isciplnarian and those
who expect promotion from him, must expect it up.
on their merits alone, ms he will place each pupil
where he properly belongs, without fear, favor or
affection.
The first thing that will be observed by person
visiting the various departments Of the Union
School, il the excellent order maintained in them
all, and that apparently without any effort on the
part of the teachers.
As our School House was built with reference to
the future improvement of the town, there has been
room for pupils from outside of the Corporation
and many have already come, and are still coming
from the country.
The general satisfaction given, renders it desra-
bic that the present efficient Superintendent and
Teachers be retained, if their services can be Sc
cured, for long time to come.