Holbrook organized the first industrial school in the United States.[6][7] It was modeled after the agronomy ideas of Philipp Emanuel von Fellenberg of Switzerland.[7] Holbrook's school was the main motivator in the new movement of lyceum schooling and industrial training in the United States.[8] Holbrook was the inspiration behind the American Lyceum Association, the second national education association.[9] Its purpose was, (1) to get better government support for public schools; (2) to upgrade the skills of teachers; (3) to have college prep courses in public schools; (4) to upgrade school text books and materials of instruction; (5) to teach the natural sciences as regular courses; (6) to upgrade teaching equipment; and (7) to get young ladies involved in early education for careers.[7][9]