Page:American Journal of Sociology Volume 4.djvu/342

 324 THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SOCIOLOGY

such guidance as should make him open his eyes in wonder indeed at the marvelous things he constantly passed by ; nature study, music, and manual training in that sense of the term which makes it systematic, educative discipline, were felt to be the best means to accomplish this object." Special provision was also made for teaching in each of four schools a small class of deaf children, who are usually completely overlooked.

At once a superintendent was engaged, that he might advise with the board, which was fortunate in securing the services of a school principal whose whole-hearted and enthusias- tic devotion to his profession, and whose sympathy for the children, insured success in his part of the work — Mr. O. J. Milliken, principal of the Fallon School. At the same time the following assistants were engaged : Mr. W. P. Beeching, super- visor of nature study; Mrs. Frances E. Raymond, director of excursions ; Miss Mari R. Hofer, supervisor of music, and Miss Louise Heller, for sewing.

For each school were engaged a kindergartner and assistant, teacher in music and accompanist, sewing teacher with assistant, two teachers each in manual training, drawing, and nature study, and one in gymnastics. Of the seventy teachers, twenty- nine were from the Chicago public schools, five from outside pub- lic schools, eleven from private schools, eight from the Jewish Training School, two from the Chicago Manual Training School, four from social settlements, and eleven had held no positions, but came highly recommended. Fifteen teachers were men. The proof of the practicability and value of excursions as an organic part of school work is the notable contribution of these schools to "the cause of education."

The students of the normal school offered their services as assistants, and ten were assigned to each school each week for one week's service. They were most helpful in schoolroom and excursion, and at the same time gained valuable experience for themselves.

The pedagogical and sociological clubs of the University of Chicago and the students of pedagogy and sociology, many of

' For details see superintendent's report, foregoing.