FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Where did private schools without public funding first begin?

1. Pennsylvania

2. Massachusetts

3. Virginia

4. New York

The correct answer is: Pennsylvania

Private schools that operated without public funding first began in Pennsylvania, primarily in the context of the early 18th century. The establishment of private institutions in Pennsylvania was influenced by various factors, including the diverse population that necessitated different educational approaches and the desire for an education that aligned with specific religious values. Additionally, Pennsylvania's early settlers emphasized the importance of education for personal and community development, leading to the founding of private schools as a means of providing a more tailored educational experience to families. These schools often focused on particular curricula or pedagogical philosophies not available in public education at the time. This historical context marks Pennsylvania as a pioneering state in the development of private education without reliance on public funding.