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Even in 1848 there was an active school committee that created the rules to be used in the school by teachers and pupils. At this time students attended one of three schools which were in the south, middle, and north areas of the island. Each school had students of all ages, although few stayed in school beyond age 13 or 14.
It wasn’t until 1897 that Jamestown’s Carr School opened and all students attended the same school and were assigned to grades based on age and skills.
Some of the 1848 rules are similar to today’s thinking. Others have changed, although in most cases the intended outcome remains the same.
Some of the more notable rules for the teachers included:
The teacher should use his best exertions to bring scholars to obedience and a sense of duty.
The teachers shall classify the pupils of their respective schools according to their attainments, irrespective of rank or wealth, and shall assign them such lessons as seem best adapted to their capacities.
It is recommended that the schools be opened by reading a portion of the Bible. . . . No scholar shall be required to engage in this exercise against the expressed wishes of the parent or guardian.
(A nod to the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which ensures freedom of religion.)
Needle work not allowed in school.
(Perhaps equivalent to today’s prohibition of cell phones in class.)
Rules for the pupils included
The pupils are strictly enjoined to avoid idleness and profanity, falsehood and deceit, and every wicked and disgraceful practice
No scholar who comes to school without proper attention having been given to the cleanliness of his person and dress . . . shall be permitted to remain in school.
Smoking and chewing tobacco . . . are forbidden.
To view more about Jamestown’s schools and their pupils in the JHS Collection, click here
