How was taxpayers money used for 19th century school reform?

In the 19th century, taxpayer money was increasingly allocated to support public education reforms, which aimed to establish free, universal schooling. This funding was used to build schools, hire teachers, and develop curricula, promoting the idea that education was essential for a productive and informed citizenry. Reformers like Horace Mann advocated for these changes, emphasizing that a well-educated populace was crucial for a democratic society. As a result, public education became more accessible to children from various socioeconomic backgrounds, laying the groundwork for the modern education system.