Thomas Jefferson considered basic education as a key component to protecting freedom, virtues and happiness for Americans it aids the individual "know his rights" and "understand his duties" . In 1785, he published his book Notes on the State of Virginia, he proposed that taxpaying citizens would supply the means for education; communities would organize the schooling. The ideas he advocated held true. Our liberties depends upon offering a quality education to the generations to come.
His plan consisted on three stages for the education of children:
- primary schools: all children, irrespective of the parents economic capacity, would be qualified to go, no less than three years.
- Intermediate schools: for those who exceeded primary school, and for kids whose parents were able to pay for.
- Finally, the university: for students whose parents were eager to pay.
Sadly, Jefferson had little success regarding his attempt to change the education system.