First U.S. Commissioner Of Education

A Calling

. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Henry Barnard graduated from Yale College in 1830, taught school for one year, and subsequently studied law. As the years passed, he was drawn away from law and became deeply interested in education. At twenty-four Barnard traveled across the Atlantic to study the various schools and educational approaches of Europe. After nearly three years abroad he returned and was elected a Whig delegate to the Connecticut General Assembly (1837-1840). Combining his knowledge of law with his passion for public education, Barnard immediately put forth legislation that aimed at creating a State Board of Commissioners for Common Schools. Modeled after the Massachusetts plan, the board, with a secretary of education at the helm, would oversee the creation and supervision of a state public school system. In 1839 he was able to secure passage of...