We know one major pathway to success is education. National Learning and Development Month, held each October, reminds us all of the importance of supporting education and learning at every stage of life. Remember — it’s not just for kids. Gaining knowledge doesn’t have an expiration date. Education and learning are critical to human progress. Don’t assume others will do the hard work for you. Take the initiative and never stop learning.
National Learning and Development Month timeline
The first episode of "Schoolhouse Rock!" aired on television.
The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) was administered for the first time.
The first United States Department of Education was established in 1867.
Margarethe Schurz founded America's first kindergarten in the city of Watertown, Wisconsin.
National Learning and Development Month Activities
Volunteer to help kids learn
Public library reading programs, preschools, and after school programs can all benefit from adult volunteers willing to make a contribution to children's lives. Organizations that help kids with developmental disabilities are a good choice.
Join the school board
Bring your talents to your local school board, which has a big influence over education policies in your district and how schools operate. It could be the start of long career in politics!
Take a class
Have you always wanted a new hobby? Take a class during which you'll learn a new skill or develop a love for history or geography or wine. Give your brain some developmental exercise.
5 Major Figures In Education History
Jane Addams (1860-1935)
A leader who expanded education opportunities for women and the underprivileged. The first woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.
John Dewey (1859-1952)
A major education thinker who helped schools think and operate more pragmatically, allowing for major strides of progress.
Maria Montessouri (1870-1952)
Montessouri used her influence to advocate for more learning opportunities for young children, especially underprivileged children. There are thousands of Montessouri schools throughout the U.S.
Margaret Bancroft (1854-1912)
Margaret Bancroft pioneered special education in America and advocated for a special approach to educating children with developmental disabilities.
Horace Mann (1796-1859)
Horace Mann is responsible for the development of the U.S. public education system. He was a strong advocate for free, taxpayer-funded education.
Why We Love National Learning and Development Month
Education is the primary stepping stone to success
All the statistics show it. The more education we obtain — the more successful we are in life. Research shows a link between happiness and learning, so a committed learner is likely a happier person.
We can never stop learning
Especially in this digital age, continued learning and development of skills are a key to bettering ourselves, whether it's switching or furthering our careers — or picking up a new skill or hobby.
Kids need knowlege
The data show that the earlier kids begin formal learning programs the more successful they will be. National Learning and Development Month brings a focus to the education needs of our kids and how they can benefit from early learning programs.
National Learning and Development Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 1 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 1 | Sunday |
| 2029 | October 1 | Monday |
