From hesitance to acceptance : The transformation of the Wichita Public School System from 1957 to 1972
Abstract
The United States experienced a multitude of social changes between the late
1950s and early 1970s. Many people looked to public education to play a prominent role
in managing the sudden transformations that occurred. School districts throughout the
nation needed to develop comprehensive plans to handle issues such as integration,
modernization, and overcrowding with little time to prepare. Wichita represented a
common experience at this time where leaders of a quiet conservative community had to
respond to demands from local citizens as well as the federal government to develop
workable programs that provided increasing educational opportunities to a greater number
of students. Conservative reactionaries from the school board and community resisted
the greater emphasis on progressive, humanistic multicultural curriculum. Nevertheless,
despite disagreements over the nature of the school system, Wichita emerged in the early
1970s as a modem, integrated school system resembling other districts of comparable size.
Table of Contents
Introduction -- A new curriculum for a changing community -- The changing pattern of student teacher and administrative relations within the Wichita public school district -- The federal government enhances its role in the eucational affairs of a local community -- Conclusion -- Bibliography
Description
Thesis (M.A.)-- Wichita State University, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Dept. of History