Published on 02/14/2020
In George Washington’s first annual address to Congress, he spoke about the importance of education in maintaining the freedoms defined in the newly minted Constitution. “Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.” This idea is the core purpose of public education- that it ensures a free society because people have a shared knowledge base, and the capacity for critical thought. We can form opinions about important matters, and debate them from a shared reality and a desire to know more. And we are happier for it!
Both Washington and Lincoln, whom we celebrate this weekend, elevated the purpose of education. As we reflect on their legacies, we can certainly be grateful for that!
Enjoy a restful weekend.
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