Education in the United States Facts for Kids

A teacher and her students in an elementary school classroom

A high-school senior (twelfth grade) classroom in Calhan, Colorado

Education in the United States is mostly provided by the public sector. This means that the government helps run and pay for schools. Public education is available in every part of the United States.

Local school boards make important decisions. They decide on the school's curriculum (what students learn). They also manage money, teaching methods, and other rules. These school boards are chosen by people in the community.

How Schools Are Organized
Levels of Public Education
Continuing Your Education: College
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How Schools Are Organized

School districts are often separate from other local government areas. They have their own leaders and budgets. State governments set education standards. They also create tests that students must take.

Children usually start school between ages five and eight. They typically finish between ages fourteen and eighteen. Education is required by law in the US.

You can get an education in a few ways:

Public schools
Private schools (approved by the government)
Home school programs

Levels of Public Education

In most public schools, education is split into three main levels:

Elementary School Years

The first level is elementary school. This is where younger children begin their learning journey. The specific grades in elementary school can be different in each state.

Middle School Experience

The second level is middle school. This is for students who are a bit older. Like elementary school, the grades included in middle school can vary by state. Sometimes, middle school is called "junior high school."

High School Journey

The last level is high school. This is where students prepare for college or a career. High school grades also differ from state to state. After finishing their senior year (12th grade), students earn a high school diploma. This shows they have completed their basic education.

Continuing Your Education: College

After high school, many students choose to go to college. College is not required by law. It is an option for those who want to learn more or start a specific career.

Some students attend a two-year community college. These colleges are sometimes called "Junior colleges." They offer a good way to start college studies. After college, adults can earn special certificates for different jobs.