Margaret Bancroft by Ashlyn Paulsen

Self Portrait

ashlynpaulsen — 2025-08-27 20:57:08 UTC

ashlynpaulsen — 2025-08-27 20:59:54 UTC

Margaret was born in Philadelphia on June 28th, 1954. She was the fourth out of five children. She part took in normal schools to start her education path. After she had graduated she became a teacher in Philadelphia.

This was just the start of her legacy and the path she would create.

ashlynpaulsen — 2025-08-27 21:00:33 UTC

ashlynpaulsen — 2025-08-27 23:51:29 UTC

At 29 she opened up Bancroft Training school. This was one of the earliest schools specifically for educated students with special needs.

She advocated for them. She also made sure they knew how to live properly. In the 19th century, children with developmental disabilities were denied any chance at education. Many were cast aside or confined to grim institutions where compassion was scarce and mistreatment was common.

Margaret was in many different groups, such as the Haddon Fortnightly women's club. The club advocated for women's interest in education and literature.

ashlynpaulsen — 2025-08-28 00:05:52 UTC

Margaret is the reason why we now use SPED programs crossed the country. She saw that these students needed the social & emotional learning that neurotypical students don't. The government makes it mandatory to have this program to protect and affirm the rights these students have and to ensure they receive a quality education.