“The school is the last expenditure upon which America should be willing to economize.”
- January 30, 1882 – April 12, 1945
- American
- Politician
- [Achievements]
- As president of the United States, he promoted economic recovery from the Great Depression with the New Deal policy
- He led the Allied powers to victory in World War II
- [Criticism]
- His hard-line policy toward Japan triggered the attack on Pearl Harbor
- He pushed for the forced internment policy of Japanese Americans due to racist feelings toward the Japanese
- He promoted the Manhattan Project, a plan to develop the atomic bomb
Quote
“The school is the last expenditure upon which America should be willing to economize.”
Explanation
In this quote, Franklin D. Roosevelt emphasizes the critical importance of education and argues that it should be prioritized even in times of financial hardship. Roosevelt’s words reflect his belief that the future prosperity and strength of the nation depend on providing a quality education for all citizens. He suggests that cutting funding for schools—which is often one of the first targets in times of budgetary constraints—is a mistake, because investing in education is an investment in the nation’s long-term success and growth. Education, for Roosevelt, was not just about individual learning, but about empowering society as a whole to thrive and progress.
This statement underscores Roosevelt’s commitment to public education as a means to ensure social mobility and to equip future generations with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle the challenges of an ever-evolving world. His belief was that cutting school funding would not only harm individuals, but also undermine national progress, leaving the country less competitive and less prepared for the future.
In the modern context, this quote still rings true as discussions around education funding continue to be a central issue in many countries. Whether it’s debates over public vs. private education, education reform, or equitable access to learning opportunities, Roosevelt’s words serve as a reminder that investing in education is crucial for the long-term health of society and the economy. In times of economic strain, the temptation to cut spending on schools is often strong, but Roosevelt’s quote reminds us that the future of the nation is best served by ensuring that education remains a top priority.
