What is the purpose of the common school movement?

The common school movement aimed to establish publicly funded, universal education for all children, regardless of their background or social status. It sought to create a system of common schools that would provide basic education and promote civic values, social cohesion, and equal opportunity. By advocating for free and accessible education, the movement contributed to the development of a more informed citizenry and laid the groundwork for the modern public education system in the United States.