In Annual Reports to the Massachusetts Board of Education, Horace Mann provides a comprehensive account of the state's educational system in the mid-19th century. As the Secretary of the Board of Education, Mann offers valuable insights into the challenges and successes of public education during this time period.

Mann's reports are well-researched and detailed, addressing a wide range of topics such as teacher training, curriculum development, and the importance of educational funding. His writing is clear and concise, making it accessible to a wide audience.

One of the standout aspects of Mann's reports is his passion for improving education for all students. He emphasizes the importance of providing equal opportunities for all children, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. His dedication to social reform and educational equality is inspiring and serves as a reminder of the importance of education in shaping society.

Overall, Annual Reports to the Massachusetts Board of Education is a valuable historical resource that sheds light on the early efforts to improve public education in the United States. Mann's insights and recommendations are still relevant today, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history of education and social reform.

Book Description:
Horace Mann is called The Father of the Common School and was one of the first progressive thinkers on education in the United States. His Annual Reports to the Massachusetts Board of Education, written between 1837 and 1848, are wide-ranging essays on topics, including philosophical arguments on the role of education in a democracy, curricular matters such as textbook choice and methods of reading instruction, and nitty-gritty details of classroom furnishings and buildings. Even in the much-changed society of the 21st century, much of Mann's writing still speaks to us, recalling us to the roots of our faith in education for all. - Summary by Maria Kasper