The reasons we educate our children have changed over time. However, some of the core values ​​remain the same. One of the most important purposes of education is the transmission of a culture from one generation to the next. It is important to pass on our culture, values ​​and beliefs to our children so that we continue to have a cohesive population. School provides opportunities for our children by teaching them valuable skills that enable them to be self-sufficient and lead successful lives. School also serves to reduce the social ills suffered by those who do not have an education. An ultimate goal of education is to create people who are active in civic life. All societies have used formal education to transmit their culture. Schools have been used for centuries to transmit religion, values, and other culturally significant principles. Our culture and curriculum are completely intertwined. When colonists came to America they brought their culture with them and the way they raised their children reflected this. The early settlers were very religious people and their curriculum was very faith based. It complimented the education they received at church and at home. As immigrants poured into the country, life changed dramatically. As the population spread westward, typical family and social dynamics changed rapidly. The people dispersed widely, and the authority and influence of the church was no longer as important. People soon realized that the way they were used to raising their children had to adapt to their new way of life. Initially only wealthy male children were educated. People could teach girls to read and write their own names, but many believed that girls and women did not have the mental capacity to learn much beyond that. In the seve...... half of the document ...... we are experimenting with the first degrees in a widespread way” (Feldman, 2007, pg.4) This is a step in the right direction and, hopefully, with the As time passes, there will be greater awareness and importance placed on civic education. The purpose of education can be highly subjective, but some fundamental purposes have persisted over time. These core values ​​are important and will continue to be the driving force behind education. Unfortunately, many times the idealized goals of education are very different from reality. Our education system is not perfect but it is constantly improving. Despite its flaws, our current school system teaches our children many important skills, both socially and academically. School offers our children the opportunity to reach their full potential and succeed in life. As our culture changes, so do our purposes behind educating our children.