There were many educational reformers who attempted to improve schools.  Francis W. Parker was a nicknamed “father of the Progressive Education Movement” and created a “new” type of education during the late 1800s (Altenbaugh, 188, 189).  He helped children grow in all areas of development, where they could be prepared for life situations and become independent, critical thinkers.  Teachers were to be well-trained and specialized in all areas of education.  Jane Addams was another reformer who established reform centers to help the poor and working-class immigrants.  In Hull Houses, Addams stressed topics that would interest everyone.  It had “a gymnasium and a kindergarten, as well as offered adult classes in nutrition, English language, drama, domestic training, and child care" (Altenbaugh, 188).  Another reformer was John Dewey, who introduced laboratory schools.  He stressed social and moral education.  Dewey realized the need for community, and believed that school subjects should “focus on the interest of the student, and encompass the emotional side of the child” (Altenbaugh, 191).