The opening of the volume begins with a detailed examination of the educational reforms that occurred in the Philippines under American rule. Worcester highlights the significance of the Bureau of Education and contrasts it with the ineffective Spanish educational system. The narrative outlines the development of public education, the introduction of vocational training, and the establishment of schools aimed at training a new generation of teachers and skilled workers. Worcester also reflects on the challenges faced during the implementation of these reforms, the responses of the Filipino populace, and the importance of education in fostering a sense of responsibility and community among the people. He uses personal observations and specific examples to underscore the transformative impact of these educational initiatives on Philippine society. (This is an automatically generated summary.)