Interview with Gardner L. Turner, Joseph C. Graves, November 3, 1988

Interview Summary

Gardner L. Turner and Joseph C. Graves both attended the University School at the University of Kentucky. Turner was born in Louisville, Kentucky, but his family moved back to Lexington, Kentucky in 1935. Graves was born in Lexington in 1930. Turner attended Jefferson Davis Elementary, Sayre School, and the University School at the University of Kentucky. Graves began his education at the University School in kindergarten. Graves recalls teachers at the University School, including Miss Kitty Conroy and Anna B. Peck. Both Graves and Turner feel that their parents sent them to University School because it was considered "progressive," since student teachers generally used the newest theories and practices. They both discuss the differences in theoretical practices and methodology between Sayre School and the University School.

Graves and Turner discuss, from their perspective as parents, why people choose public or private school for their children. They describe extracurricular activities at both types of schools. Graves recalls, due to gas rationing, parochial and private students were allowed to ride the public school buses, especially students living in the country. Graves talks about the perception of the community regarding the University School. He discusses the more relaxed, less disciplined environment at the University School versus the more structured environment of Sayre, which was labeled as a school for rich children. Both Graves and Turner agree that the focus of the University School was "a well-rounded educational experience." Graves sent his three children to Montessori schools in Lexington. Turner enrolled his daughter at University School until it was closed during President John T. Oswald's tenure, then she attended Sayre instead.

Interview Keyword

Sayre School University High School University of Kentucky University Training School Model High School of the University of Kentucky Private education Public education Public schools Education Sayre School Student teachers Reputation Teaching methods Curriculum Methods in education Transition and continuity in early education Private schools

Interview LC Subject

Graves, Joseph C., 1930- Graves, Joseph C., 1930- --Interviews Turner, Gardner L. Turner, Gardner L.--Interviews University of Kentucky University of Kentucky--History Methodology. Student teachers--United States. Curriculum and methods in education Private schools. Education Lexington (Ky.) Public schools. Teachers--Kentucky Teaching

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