The History of Education in New Jersey

A history of the New Jersey public education system from the one-room schoolhouse of the 19th century to the computer-driven classroom of today is the focus of a 90-minute NJN special called Teaching Over Time. This in-depth look at the development of public schools in the state - guaranteeing a free education for all - is hosted and narrated by NJN News Anchor, Kent Manahan.

The documentary addresses many turning points in the development of the educational system, including the creation of the State Board of Education, teacher training and high schools. Through personal stories and historic recollections, the program examines the impact of events such as war, segregation, the Depression, the post World War II "baby boom" and computers on the New Jersey classroom.

Teaching Over Time explores the pioneering role Clara Barton played in bringing free education to the children of Bordentown in the 1850s. A group of distinguished 19th-century gentlemen, called the "Friends of Education", come to life through readings from the contemporary writings of the day. These New Jerseyans pushed for the establishment of free state-run schools as well as formal teacher training.

At the turn of the century, New Jersey's urban schools became the "melting pot" for many immigrants in search of the America dream. Viewers take a trip down memory lane with 95-year-old Myron Van Deveer as he revisits the West Freehold one-room schoolhouse of his childhood and recalls a typical school day. The camera will follow J. Garfield Jackson, Sr., who was the first African-American teacher employed by the East Orange School District in its effort to integrate schools in the early 1950s, and who eventually became principal. An East Orange elementary school was named after him in honor of his 45 years as an educator.

Teaching Over Time documents the many challenges and changes that have taken place in New Jersey's public schools during the second half of the 20th century, including the fight for teachers' rights in the 1960s and 70s, the advent of computers in the classroom in the 1980s, the Abbott vs. Burke court case, the "Nation at Risk" report and the ongoing struggle to keep up with the rising costs of free education.

Teaching Over Time illustrates how far education has progressed from the one-room schoolhouse of yesteryear, and how today's educators and concerned citizens continue to look for ways to improve this unique American public education system - a truly democratic institution - that guarantees a free education for all children.

Executive producer for Teaching Over Time is Janice Selinger. Jill A. Hargrave is producer. The program features original music by National Emmy Award winning composer Robert Sands. Funding for this program is provided by the New Jersey Education Association and NJ FamilyCare.

Premiered November 20, 2003