The public school was established for the purpose of educating the masses. If we believe, fellow directors, that it should still be conducted for this purpose, and I believe we do, then we must believe that it is our duty to give the masses of the children in this Commonwealth an education in our public schools that will enable them to take a proper position in society as business men and women, and as citizens.

I believe the public schools of this Commonwealth will not meet the educational needs of the times until we have established within the reach of every boy and girl a township High, or at least a well-graded, school, with a course of studies broad enough to keep the children constantly and profitably employed up to the average age of at least seventeen years, and comprehensive enough to enable every graduate to enter the normal school, and graduate therefrom in two years; the course of studies of the public school and normal school should be properly linked, so there wouid be no loss of time by compelling the child, after entering the normal, to go over the work that was done, or should have been done, before leaving the public school.

From the standpoint of the normal or preparatory teacher such a course of studies may be considered too broad; it is claimed that while the child is being prepared in the more advanced branches, the lower branches are being neglected. This objection, I think, is entirely overcome by providing the kind of schools and keeping the child in them the length of time I have already indicated.

Is there any normal instructor here to-day who would say that if a child is put in his school at the age of six, and given the regular course of studies up to the age of seventeen, that child would not be qualified to enter the junior class? I think not; that which can be done with a child up to that age in the normal or any preparatory school can be done in the public school, if we are willing to employ the time and the talent.

Is it worth our efforts? Remember that while the preparatory schools are educating the few, we are preparing the many, and if some of the branches are not taught as thoroughly as we might desire, still the child's mind is being broadened, the elementary principles are being ingrafted, which breadth and principles, if not obtained in the public schools with the large majority of children would never be obtained, because of their inability to afford to go beyond the public schools.

I believe the trouble to-day in the districts where we have the graded system established is that we turn the children out at too early an age; and because of that, they have not had the studies they should have had, and lack thoroughness in the studies they have had. Think of it, gentlemen, turning the children out of our public schools at the age of thirteen, four

teen, or fifteen, before their special aptitude for any business or calling has manifested itself, and the large majority of whom can never afford to pursue their studies in any other school, is enough to make us hang our heads, if not in shame, at least in serious consideration and reflection.

What we need in the State of Pennsylvania to day to enable the masses of the growing generation to meet the educational requirements of the age is first, have established in every district a school year of not less than nine months; then have a thorough systematic course of studies beginning with the child at the age of six, and have it broad and comprehensive enough so that the average child cannot graduate until about the age of seventeen, finishing in a township high, or well-graded school.

We must keep constantly in mind the fact that the great majority of children can not afford to go from home to a Normal or preparatory school; all the school education the masses of the people get is that which they receive in the public schools; and while I have no doubt that the public school of today starts the flame and awakens the desire for knowledge in the hearts of the multitudes of boys and girls, yet with a very large percentage of them that desire can never be satisfied, because the public school leaves them in a position where they must spend too many years at school from home, and an outlay of money incident thereto which simply makes the getting of a proper education prohibitory.

It is for the masses of the people for whom we plead; it is for the masses of the people we as directors are responsible for the educational advantage given.

It may be said that the directors provide for and give the children in their respective districts all the education their people demand, and all their people are willing to pay for. This to a very large extent is true, but let me say to you, fellow directors, that it is your duty, as representatives and directors of the educational interests of your communities, to mold public educational sentiment, to lead and educate your people so that they will place a proper value upon the education of their children, teach them that the development of the minds of their children is a more valuable legacy than the few extra dollars they may be able to leave them by reason of the tax-rate being kept low.

Therefore, fellow directors, I believe it is our duty to qualify the children in the public schools, so that they will meet the educational needs and requirements of the times by giving them a more thorough education, which can only be done by increasing the length of the school year, by establishing such schools, and such a course of studies as will meet the requirements of the child's mind at every stage of development during its school life up to about the average age of seventeen; at which age it is

young enough to enter upon its life work, and at which age, if the training and course of studies is what it should have been, the child will have sufficient education to enter into any business, outside of the professions, and to take a proper position in society as a citizen.

OFFICERS FOR NEXT YEAR.

I. A. Cleaver, from the Committee on Nominations, reported the following list. of officers proposed for next session, which, on motion, was adopted, and they were elected by the Secretary casting the vote of the Convention :

President-Hon. Wm. Field Shay, Northumberland Co.

Pirst Vice President-Simon E. Bowman, Daaphin Co.; Second Vice President - Wm. Wynkoop, Bucks Co.; Third Vice President -J. C. Smith, Jefferson Co. Recording Secretary Montgomery Co.

Sam'l J. Garner,

Corresponding Secretary-Rev. E. S. Hassler, Somerset Co.

Treasurer-H. H. Rice, Dauphin Co. Executive Committee-J. R. Spiegel, Geo. H. Hugus, Westmoreland Co.; A. C. Coulter, Allegheny Co; Wm. H. Sanford, Cambria Co.; Sam'l M. Wakefield, Fayette Co. Legislative Committee - Hon. John S. Wentz, Montgomery Co.; Hon. R. L. Meyers, Cumberland Co.; Chas. H. Van Fleet, Philadelphia; W. Jno. Campbell, Chester Co.; B. Walter Beatty, Delaware Co.

TREASURER'S ACCOUNT.

M. S. Parvin reported from the Auditing Committee, showing the account of the Treasurer to be as follows:

and efficiency; by giving opportunities for the discussion of questions relating to their judicious management; and by fostering an interchange of opinions having in view their general improvement, and the adoption of the best methods for advancing their welfare.

Resolved, That no higher obligation devolves upon the school director than the selection of the best and most competent teachers; and, while the obstructions to the accomplishment of this object may, at times, seem almost insurmountable, the efforts to this end should never be relaxed, and School Boards should ever insist upon competency, executive ability, and educational qualifications; and these attributes of a good teacher having been secured, then the most liberal compensation should be given in order that the effective teacher can be retained, and encouraged to give the best of her talents to the training of the pupil and the development of the school.

Resolved, That the welfare of the rising generation, as well as their future value as citizens of the State, largely depends on the character of our public schools; and while it is essential that these should be under the care of competent teachers, it is highly important that the people elect as school directors those who are well qualified for the position.

Resolved, That the failure of the last Legislature to appropriate funds to circulate information from the Department of Public Instruction to Boards of Directors through the Pennsylvania School Journal, is matter of regret and loss; and that this Convention urgently recommends that the appropriation for that purpose be resumed.

Resolved, That the Legislature be requested to eliminate the following clause from the law authorizing the directors to consolidate schools, namely, "if it does not increase cost," as we believe such action will make the law more practicable and effective.

Resolved, That, as heretofore declared by the unanimous approval of this Association, we vigorously protest against any reduction in the appropriation to the public schools of the State; and we earnestly urge that the recent curtailment thereof be restored in the next State appropriation.

These resolutions, on motion of H. H. Hubbert, of Philadelphia, were unanimously adopted as read.

The following_resolution, offered by S. E. Bowman, of Dauphin county, was reported with a negative recommendation:

Resolved, That it is the sense of this Committee, that the Legislature be asked at its next session, to pass a law authorizing the payment out of the school fund of the district of the expense of the directors in attending the meetings of the County School Directors' Association.

S. J. Garner, Montgomery county: I am sorry the committee make such a recommendation. I thought the resolution was timely, and hoped it had struck a responsive chord in all our hearts. We seemed all agreed last night that directors need education, and it would be well to pay their expenses to county institute. I know that those who now attend are the live men, and the absentees are indifferent; and I believe some fail to come because of the expense. Why should not the tax-payers do something toward educating their directors? I believe this is one of the best things proposed here.

J. H. McFarland, Montgomery county: If this is to be paid from the appropriation, you will start on a road that will end in making school director a political position. If it is right to pay directors' expenses, let their own district pay them.

H. H. Hubbert, Philadelphia, said this very proposition had been defeated in the legislature, and everything like it had been turned down by this body heretofore. Attendance at institute should be voluntary, as it is here. If you pay expenses, a different class will attend.

I. A. Cleaver, Chester county: It is the same old question that comes up every year. I hope we will vote it down, consistently with our past action. Let us fill our office from a sense of duty, without compensation.

G. H. Hugus, Westmoreland county: If we pay even a nominal sum, we shall have a crop of candidates of a different sort from those who are glad to render this service for the good of the State. I hope we will not break our good record in this matter.

Mr. Garner: There is no pay for service; it is actual expenses of attendance on directors' day at institute.

J. K. Wildman, Bucks county: I have always opposed similar propositions, and shall oppose this. It is best to maintain the claim of giving this service to humanity voluntarily and without thought of reward. I believe the committee are right, and we should support them. Let us continue to work for the public good from a sense of duty and without other compensation than a good conscience.

The question was put, and the negative recommendation of the committee was sustained.

HIGH SCHOOL APPROPRIATION.

asked what had become of his resolution relative to appropriation for high schools. The chairman replied that the committee had taken no action upon it.

Mr. O'Donnell asked to have it taken up, but the point of order was raised that nothing was in order but report of committee, and this was not reported upon. The point was sustained.

QUESTION BOX.

The Chair: The State Superintendent has been with us since we started, and I think we ought to have his counsel before we adjourn. He is on the program for a "question box" exercise, and I now leave the meeting in his hands.

Dr. Schaeffer: Perhaps the best thing I can say to you just now is that yesterday the last appropriations for the current year were issued, with one or two exceptions whose papers were not properly filed. And now to the question box.

"As teachers in the public schools are required to teach the evil effects of liquor and tobacco, ought not directors be compelled by law to prohibit their use by teachers during school term?" Referred to G. H. Hugus, of Westmoreland.

Mr. Hugus: I answer No. A person of intemperate habits cannot get a certificate now. And suppose you put it in the contract, and he did use it notwithstanding, could you dismiss or refuse to pay? I doubt it. But I should say no anyhow. There are some teachers and directors and superintendents who use tobaccogood men, who are towers of strength in the land. We could not enforce such a law if we had it, and I think legislative enactment is not the way to bring up teachers to the standard. If you are not satisfied with the teacher's habits, do not employ him next year.

What is the practical way to carry out the library law?" Referred to I. A. Cleaver of Chester.

Mr. Cleaver: Get the library, from some generous friend if you can; if not, levy a tax, buy it, and take care of it the same as any other property.

Can we do anything to overcome the vaccination muddle." Referred to Dr. F. R. Brunner, of Berks.

The legislature should either provide for compulsory enforcement of the law, or else repeal it. As it is, some parents use it to evade compulsory attendance. Dr. Schaeffer: An immune boy in Phil

B. B. Sykes, Clearfield county: If vaccination protects, and my child has been protected, why need I bother about my neighbor who won't vaccinate his child? It is his risk, not mine.

Dr. Schaeffer: It is a plain conflict between the vaccination law and the compulsory school law. The Department cannot straighten it any more than you directors. The compulsory education law says the child shall go to school, and the vaccination law says he shall not, unless successfully vaccinated. As it stands it is a matter of judgment and persuasion. I have not been able to formulate an opinion I would be willing to stand upon in every case.

G. D. Swain, Butler county: But it comes up in practice, and what shall we do? People object, and it is a difficult question.

Dr. Schaeffer: I should want to know the particular case before deciding. Some people think "municipalities" applies only to towns, not townships; but the State Board of Health think otherwise,

"To what extent should school boards be influenced by petitions of citizens?" Dr. Schaeffer said he would answer that in a word-so far as is right.

"What can the public schools do to fit rural pupils for their profession as farmers?" Referred to Secretary of Agriculture Hamilton.

Secretary Hamilton: They could and ought to do more than they are doing. I was raised in the country and was a grown man at college before I knew the parts of a flower, the composition of air and water, the natural history of the butterfly. Yet my teachers were trained, educated men, mostly college graduates; not as so many now, with only an elementary education. Now, after 25 years fighting, natural science is taught everywhere. And it is high time-think of children in rural districts growing up blind to their glorious environment, and the teachers blind leaders of the blind! Something is being done on this line by Cornell, and by the State College Leaflets; Europe had learned the lesson long ago, Canada is awake. Children hunger for such instruction. We have done something in presenting this matter to the Farmers' Institutes. Our agricultural peo

teachers will prepare for it. When you directors are employing teachers, ask them "Can you teach the natural, common things around us?" and if not, tell them they can't teach for you. That will soon create a demand that the Normal schools will have to meet. This demand is coming, and those who try to stand in the way will be swept out. The country people want information about their business. We are getting up a natural history library for country schools, which will be published and sent out.

"Under the compulsory law, are there any offences that justify expulsion of a pupil from school?" Referred to Deputy Supt. of Instruction J. Q. Stewart.

Mr. Stewart: The act of 1854, which authorized directors to suspend pupils from school, is not in any way modified by the compulsory law. You have full authority to maintain discipline, and may suspend or expel any who are incorrigible or wilfully disobedient. The compulsory law authorized the establishment of special schools for truants and other special cases, but this has been done only in one case (Allegheny), and is often impracticable by reason of the conditionsin small districts there would be perhaps only one or two cases, and you could not have a separate school.

"What can be done to provide for a ་་ ་ more satisfactory registration ?"

Dr. Schaeffer: We will not get that until we can take it out of the hands of assessors and county commissioners, and put it in the hands of the school boards, or men appointed by them. Meanwhile, when children are omitted by the assessors, you should add them to the list.

"Can the Department do anything to help carry out Secretary Hamilton's plan for supplying literature?"

Dr. Schaeffer: No fund is provided for

that purpose. And that empties the Question Box.

I will add a closing word. While I am a thorough believer in natural science study, and manual training, and the other new and good things, I hope you will never forget that one chief function of the school is to teach the right use of books. That school is a failure which teaches only reading, writing and ciphering, and a little geography and history. Our first duty to our boys and girls is to fit them for their future as citizens and for home and social life. If we pursued in other

lines the policy we have in reading, the | folly of such a course could not escape notice. Should a father instil into his child a desire for the plants of the nightshade family, and then turn him out into a field where the poison grew beside the esculent, what would be the result? Yet we teach our children to read, and create a fondness for books, and then turn them loose to find what reading they can-and much of what they find at the book-stall is as deleterious to the soul as the deadly nightshade is to the body. We should teach them not only how to read, but what to read, giving them the best books in reach, and among them those which bear upon their future as agriculturists. And now I turn over this, in my judgment, the most successful meeting of the Directors' Association, into the hands of our cultured, distinguished and much-appreciated President.

The Chair: We have all noted with gratification the zeal and interest which have brought together so many from their distant homes. The programme has been fully carried out, and there were many excellent papers. There has been wide and intelligent discussion, participated in by a large number of our members, in a manner creditable to the body, which must be the case where men come from all parts, and pay their own way with their own money. I was present at the first meeting in Philadelphia, where a few of us met to consider the organization of an Association and arrange preliminaries. I was skeptical then as to its success, but good has come out of it. I have been present at every meeting since, and now believe the Association has come to stay, and recognize the power it will have and the duty to consider and pass upon the merits of proposed legislation; the legislature will be impressed by its recommendations and give them due weight. I bespeak for my successor the consideration and courtesy shown to me, and ask for a larger effort to bring delegates from all the counties next year when the legislature is in session. The extreme corners of the State are all represented this year. I hope all who are here now will come again, and bring so many others that there will be a large, representative and successful convention.

The session then adjourned sine die.

MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE.

The following list was furnished by the

Bedford-R. E. Smith, W. Scott Stuckey. Berks-M. S. Parvin, H. S. Striley, Dr. Frank R. Brunner, Supt. E. M. Rupp.

Blair-J. H. Mathias, Wm. E. McKee. Bucks-Anna M. Carver, Hugh B. Eastburn, J. K. Wildman, Wm. Wynkoop, Ezra Michener. Butler-G. D. Swain.

Cambria-Wm. H. Sanford, G. W. Bowman. Centre-C. T. Fryberger.

Chester-Isaac A. Cleaver, Amos G. Gotwals, Harry Sloyer, W. J. Campbell, D. W. Entriken, John S. Freden, Supt. G. W. Moore, Prof. R. S. Macnamee.

Clearfield-Benj. J. Sykes.

Columbia-John J. O'Donnell, J. C. Brown. Cumberland-Hon. R. L. Meyers, Prof. G. M. D. Eckels.

Dauphin-H. H. Rice, Simon E. Bowman, W. O. Miller, Wm. H. Smith, G. W. Clemson, Wm. Pendy, Cyrus G. Shenk, Supt. L. O. Foose, Supt. L. E. McGinnes (for Com. of Supts. Convention), Hon. Henry Houck, Hon. J. Q. Stew

art.

Delaware-B. Walter Beatty, Newton P. West, John Vance, Supt. A. G. C. Smith. Erie-A. H. Naser, C. M. Wood. Fayette-B. T. Sherrick, S. M. Wakefield. Indiana-V. M. Cunningham.

Jefferson-J. E. Pandell, W. N. Conrod, J. C. Smith, C. A. Burkhouse.

Juniata-Oden C. Gortner, U. Shuman. Lancaster-Samuel Gochenour, F. M. Stevenson, Dr. N. C. Schaeffer.

Lebanon-Ira M. Rutter, Wm. S. Karch, S. W. Beckley, J. W. Bennetch.

Lehigh-E. S. Kurtz, James M. Marks.
Luzerne-Frank P. Hopper.
Lycoming-C. A. Ronkle.

Mifflin-W. W. Trout.

Montgomery-Hon. John A. Wentz, Sam'l J. Garner, H. M. Lessig, J. H. McFarland, Cyrus H. Caley.

Montour-W. E. Lunger.

Northampton-Geo. O. Reagel, P. E. Kreidler. Northumberland-Hon. Wm. Field Shay, P. H. Roberts, Will Lesher, John A. Kline, Wm. Voris.

Perry-Sam'l Ebert, Isaiah E. Stevens.
Philadelphia-H. H. Hubbert, C. H. Van
Fleet, Col. J. A. M. Passmore (for S. T. A.).
Schuylkill-E. F. Phillips, G. C. Diffenderfer.
Snyder D. S. Krolly, J. S. Rine, G. W. Diehl.
Somerset-Rev. E. S. Hassler, N. D. Hay.
Sullivan--Vernon Hull, W. L. Jennings.
Susquehanna - Frank A. Davis.
Union-A. M. Wonder.

Venango C. D. Phipps.
Washington-W. H. Emery.

Westmoreland-Geo. H. Hugus, J. R. Spiegel,

J. Q. Truxal.

Wayne-J. E. Woodmansee, J. J. Perham. York-E. B. Whisler, John M. Easton.