Longer School Days?!

In Fall River Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick has decided to set aside 6.5 million dollars for eighty four schools that have failed state tests. The schools intend to spend more time on reading and writing. More time can be allotted for individual tutoring. In other states where similar actions have been taken, students are becoming excited about school because they are studying electives such as art drama music and history that were cut previously. In some schools, lateness is decreasing and attendance is rising. Many teachers and parents are not thrilled with this idea. They argue that more time would be taxing on their children who spend enough time in school already. It will cost more money. They argue that children will be walking home in the dark. Teachers further argue that they are already overworked. The controversy is growing but many are certain that these changes will occur.



In 1837, Horace Mann became the first secretary of the State Board of Education for Massachusetts. By 1852, Massachusetts had compulsory education, government funded education that students are required to attend. By 1918, Mississippi became the last state to have compulsion. People believe that public education sole purpose was evil because it taught democracy to the immigrants. This new legislation will further regulate the children’s education requirements.