Franklin didn’t have much of a formal education, but he had a lion’s share of personal experience and the use of knowledge. But he did have some strong opinions on education for American children.

“I think with you,” he said, “that nothing is more important for the public weal (wealth or well-being) than to train up youth in wisdom and virtue. Wise and good men are, in my opinion, the strength of a state, far more than riches or arms.”

He continued in this frame: “As to their studies, it would be well if they could be taught everything that is useful and everything that is ornamental. But art is long and time is short. It is therefore proposed that they be taught things that are most useful and most ornamental—in regard to the professions for which they are intended.

“Educate and inform the whole mass of the people. Enable them to see that it is their interest to preserve peace and order and they will preserve them. They are the only sure reliance for the preservation of our liberty.”

In other words, character is of the upmost importance—and it must be taught to all. If they understand that it is in their interest to have peace and order, then they will pursue it—no, demand it. You can’t teach everything so teach the most important things!