Final answer:
The development of public education was hindered in the Middle Colonies due to language diversity, systemic inequalities, and the prevalence of slavery. Reform attempts often didn't extend to marginalized groups. Plus, socio-economic disparities influenced educational opportunities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Public education was slow to grow in the Middle Colonies due to several factors. The diversity of language due to migration and immigration made it difficult to standardize language and communicate effectively in schools. Due to the prevalence of slavery in the Middle Colonies, many potential students were barred from accessing education, unlike in New England and the Midwest where common, tax-supported schools existed.
In addition, education reformers like Horace Mann advocated for the idea of the common school to reduce division between the rich and the poor, but failed to extend this inclusive vision to marginalized groups such as African Americans, Native Americans, and Catholics.
Moreover, systemic inequalities persisted in these colonies. Upper-class children generally had more access to education and could strengthen their middle-class status while working-class children's parents usually worked long hours, and thus, were less able to support their children's education.
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