Framingham State University - Dial Yearbook (Framingham, MA)

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THE DIAL EDITORIAL THEN AND NOW E are all given to taking for granted the conveniences of modern life, forget- ting that the steam engine, the electric light, the department store and the hospital are of comparatively recent origin. Corresponding cultural advances, during the past decades, have kept pace with the rapid developments of industry and science. In this country education is no longer considered a privilege for the minority. On the contrary, progressive people have made the opportunities for education open to all, regardless of color, creed, or nationality. It is our purpose here. to consider the progress made in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in regard to the education of teachers. Since the day of Horace Mann and the beginnings of State Normal School training at Lexington and Barre, in the year 1839, Massachusetts has improved steadily the process of education of teachers, as well as educational matters generally. The original two year courses have developed to three year courses. Beginning with the year l9Z2, the Household Arts course developed to one of four years in length, granting its graduates a degree of Bachelor of Science in Education. Now, all three year courses are becoming four year courses, offering a degree. In view of this fact, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has declared that the name Normal School shall become a thing of the past and the name Teachers Col- lege shall take its place. Likewise, the Principal of the Normal School is to become the President of the College. This means that not only will there be longer training for students desiring to be teachers in our public schools, but also that there will be offered curricula which are more extensive and of higher academic and professional standards. This progress in educational advance is but another step toward greater dignity and better service from this important branch of our educational system. It is indeed with great pleasure that the Staff present THE DIAL of l932 as the first year book of the State Teachers College at Framingham. with President Bagnall as its leader. LUCELIA BALKAM. Managing Editor. I17l