The Journey to Our Future - The History of Hickman Mills C-1 School District, 1902-2002 by Jami Parkison
Located on a glacially formed ridge in southwest Jackson County, Missouri, the Hickman Mills C-1 School District celebrated its 100th anniversary in April 2002. At the turn of the 20th century community leaders near the small village of Hickman Mills helped convince Missouri lawmakers to pass school consolidation legislation, a progressive measure to establish local schools beyond the grammar school level. Popular among early 20th century education reformers, the law would allow two or more common school districts to unite into one district and, by the vote of residents, to elect directors and to vote for the necessary bonds to build a high school Although Boston, Massachusetts, established the nation’s first free, publicly supported high school in May 1821, at the turn of the century high schools still only existed in a few urban, middle class areas, with enrollments based on entrance examinations. Neither the work force nor colleges required a high school diploma. Consequently, fewer than seven percent of 17-year-olds graduated from high school. The people living near Hickman Mills, many of whom were college educated farmers and merchants, wanted more than a grammar school for their children. After Missouri’s legislature passed the enabling consolidation law on March 21, 1901, the residents of the community voted for the necessary taxes to build a high school. The following fall, 1902, Ruskin High School opened its doors to 25 students. At the same time, Hickman Mills Consolidated #1 School District launched a tradition of “educating for a lifetime of learning,” a tradition that has lasted 100 years.
This hardcover book is in good condition with minor imperfections to the dust jacket and pages and cover in very good condition.
ISBN 10: 0966447077 / ISBN 13: 9780966447071
Publisher: Hickman Mills C-1 School District
Publication Date: 2002
