O Grupo Escolar de Catalão: a história do ensino primário (1923-1946)

Abstract

The present research developed in the postgraduate program in education at the Federal University of Catalão proposed to analyze the reasons that led to the creation of the school group in Catalão, in order to investigate the historical, political and cultural context that permeated this initiative, in addition to identifying the main interests in the implementation of primary education for Catalan society. Inspired by the ideals of the European renewal movement, school groups were established the fundamentals elements of the republican regime, promoting not only a specific culture in the school environment, but also emphasizing the physical, moral and sanitary pillars of teaching. In view of this, the research set out to answer the following questions: How did the creation of the First School Group of southeastern Goiás in Catalão occur? What were the factors that influenced the changes over time and your stay in the city? The general objective was to understand the structuring process for the creation of the first school group in Catalão, in the period between 1923 and 1946. Thus, specific objectives were listed to discuss the historical process of the creation of school groups in Brazil and Goiás; understand the creation of the first school group in Catalão, highlighting the political, economic and cultural social determinants, as well as their relationship with the current idea of modernity, and analyze the factors that facilitated the organization and functioning of the school group, including the changes that occurred over time. The research of a historical, documentary and bibliographic nature used as sources legislation (decrees and laws), presidential reports and messages, magazines and newspapers of the time. As well as a literature review on the topic, using works by renowned authors in the area, such as: Justino Pereira Magalhães (2004), Diana Gonçalves Vidal (2002,2006), Rosa Fátima de Souza (1998,2006,2008,2012), Luciano Mendes de Faria Fiiho (2000,2002,2003), Genesco Ferreira Bretas (1991), Valdeniza Maria Lopes da Barra (2011), Maria de Araújo Nepomuceno (1994), among others. In analyzing the studies, especially the interpretations of speeches during the republican period, a notable effort was observed in expanding access to primary education. This initiative aimed to ensure that all children had the opportunity to attend school, although not all could enjoy this access. In essence, primary public instruction in school groups under the republican regime was characterized by significant discourses that sought to expand access to education, promote civic values and improve the quality of teaching. However, given the challenges and obstacles faced, it is important to recognize that this period left a substantial contribution both to the history of Brazilian public education and to the political, social and cultural history of the city of Catalão.