Antoine de La Salle (1651-1719) was a French Catholic saint and educational reformer. He is known for his role in revolutionizing teaching methods and establishing a religious congregation dedicated to education, called the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools or the Christian Brothers.
La Salle was born into a wealthy family in Reims, France. Initially pursuing a career in priesthood, he eventually became involved in the educational field and dedicated his life to improving the education system in France. La Salle saw the desperate need for accessible education for all children, especially the poor.
His pioneering efforts in education included introducing modern teaching techniques, such as encouraging students to learn through interaction and cooperation, and establishing a standardized curriculum. La Salle also advocated for the training and professionalization of teachers, and he created the first normal school for teachers in 1685.
In 1684, La Salle founded the Brothers of the Christian Schools, an order of religious brothers who committed themselves to providing a Christian education to all children, regardless of their social status or economic background. The congregation grew rapidly, spreading its influence throughout France and eventually around the world.
As a result of his lifelong dedication to education and his contribution to reforming teaching practices, specifically focused on the education of the poor, La Salle was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1900. He is revered as the patron saint of teachers.
