The weekly democratic statesman. [volume] (Austin, Tex.) 1871-1883, 1874-04-02

school, a school Of practice shall be estab-
lished, embracing a high, and con-
mon school department. Students in
these departments shah pay for tuition at
rates to be fixed by the board, and collected
and paid as they direct. The commission
ers may appoint secretary for their board,
at such salary as may be fixed, to be paid
out of the fund appropriated for salaries.
Having given, in short, the principal pro-
visions Of the bill, we will make some re-
marks about it, and suggestions in relation
to the location. There can be no doubt
about the propriety and necessity Of having
such schools. In various States, where a
great deal of time. money and talent are
devoted to the education of the little chill
dren, young men and ladies, and the most
thorough examination made in relation
to the best modes and manner of i'm
parting instruction and preparing per-
sons for the difficult and respon-
sible positions and duties of teachers,
Normal schools have been established as the
only institutions in which parties ordinarily
are fully prepared to teach successfully.
As communities advance in wealth and in
telligence, it is very natural that the citi-
Gems should become anxious about the in
struction of the youth and should attach
the greatest importance to the Advancement
of the means Of educating all of the chill
dren Of the State. Hence public schools
have been established for instruction with
out regard to individual means. And it
has been demonstrated that such schools,
when well managed, in which teachers have
been prepared for their duties beforehand in
Normal schools, are better adapted for the
instruction of the young than institutions in
which the tuition is fixed at high prices.
As it has been determined to have a
Normal school, and as it ought to be located
in high, healthy section, and as near the
centre of the State as possible, we think
that the board can make satisfactory ar
engagements with Col James of the Military
Institute here to furnish the buildings, ap-
paratus and other necessaries for said school,
and to take charge of it as principal. Col.
James has given the most satisfactory evi-
dence of his ability to teach successfully;
and being gentleman of fine culture, and
high standing with suitable buildings,
grounds, ETC., we are led to believe that at
no other point, could so many advan-
tages be obtained. Besides, the chill
dren could derive great benefit from
an examination of the State Geo
logical Department and Library. The
president of the board would generally
be present to consult, advise and direct;
and it is believed that it could be at once
placed on the high road to complete sue
cess. 1t would also be the most suitable
place, for another very potent reason, one
which should not be overlooked and ig-
nored. During the sessions of the Legisla-
ture the members could visit the institu-
ton and see for themselves whether it was
being conducted properly; whether the
buildings and furniture were sufficient 'and
suitable; whether the teachers were well
qualified; and whether the institution would
come up to the expectation of its
founders. In a word, it would be right
under their eyes, where all of its defects
and advantages could be noted, and such
legislation had from time to time as the
public interest might require. At.any other
point it would take time and considerable
means to enable such committees as the
Legislature might appoint to visit the insti-
tuition, to examine and report, as they would
be required to do.
The Agricultural College ought to have
been located, in or about Austin; and it is
now conceded that grave error was made
in locating it at Bryan. Let us at least learn
wisdom by experience.