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Thomas Jefferson was a strong advocate for education, some would say he was ahead of his time. He signed the "Bill for the More General Diffusion of Knowledge" in 1779 which was created to give three years of free education for all children (white children). Jefferson believed that informed citizens would make better decisions and that creating informed citizens started with educating the children.

"Educate and inform the whole mass of the people...They are the only sure reliance for the preservation of our liberty." -- Thomas Jefferson

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Horace Mann, "father of American education", is known for being a major force behind establishing "common schools." Mann believed that we should have free public education and fought to make it a reality. He believed that we should have free, publicly funded elementary schools known as common schools. Mann believed that this form of education would be the "balance wheel" and would be inclusive for children from all backgrounds.

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Emma Willard was the founder of the Troy Female Seminary, the first educational institution founded to provide women with an education comparable to college-educated men. When Willard founded the seminary, women were banned from colleges and the extent of female education was limited to "female arts" such as embroidery. Willard's actions sparked conversation and controversy which led to the establishment of high schools and colleges for girls and coeducational universities.

(22) Emma Willard | She Inspires [Clip] - YouTube

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John Dewey was a philosopher who believed that curriculum should be centered around the child. Dewey believed that children should learn through experiences, not memorization, and that education is most effective when taking into consideration the social, emotional, and physical needs of the child.

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Michelle Obama was a strong advocate for education both during and after her husband's presidency. Obama created the "Reach Higher Initiative" which encouraged the need for post-secondary education, school counselors, fashion education and arts education. She also urged the importance of girls who make sacrifices to earn an education and education for African-Americans. She focused on the accessibility of healthy school lunches and how it impacts the students education. Overall, she believes children around the globe deserve a quality education and created several initiatives to encourage this quality education.

(22) First Lady Announces $100M Initiative To Educate Girls In Morocco - YouTube