In the United States, the education system is decentralizedThis means that responsibility for the schools is divided between the governments federal, state and local. The local level, such as school districts, has the autonomy to define the content, programs and teaching methods used in each institution. This guarantees a certain amount of flexibility, but it also means that the The quality of teaching can vary greatly between regions.
If you're thinking of moving with your family, it's essential to understand how school works in the United States. Below, we explain the main points about the education system, the types of school available and the routine of students.
Public or private school in the United States?
🏫 Public schools
In the USA, the public education is free until the end of high school, known as High School. Public schools are determined by geographical area, which means that your child will attend the school in the district where you live. Therefore, choosing the right area to live in is essential, Neighborhoods with better schools tend to attract more families and even increase the value of real estate.
Another important factor: the financing of public schools depends on local taxes. Thus, wealthier neighborhoods tend to have better schoolswith superior infrastructure, more extracurricular programs and above-average academic performance.
🏠 Private schools
Opting for a private school may be the best alternative if you wish:
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Live in any region, regardless of the quality of the local public schools;
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Having access to a specific curriculum, such as bilingual, Catholic or international education;
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Seeking a more competitive environment with higher academic standards.
In addition, many parents feel more comfortable in talk directly to teachers and management in private schools, especially in relation to their children's performance.
What's the school routine like in the United States?
The routine in American schools is usually intense and well organized. Classes start early, between 7am and 8am, and continue until around 3pm, with a break for lunch. During the day, students attend compulsory and optional classes, depending on the school year.
For students who want to stand out or getting into good universitiesThere is a wide range of extracurricular activities available, such as:
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Science, journalism or debate clubs;
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Sports such as soccer, basketball and swimming;
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Dance, theater, music and volunteer groups.
These activities are highly valued by universities and make up the school curriculum (school transcript) that students submit when applying for higher education.
Planning to move to the USA? Count on our help!
If you are looking for a property in an area with good schoolsPlease contact our agents. We can help you find the ideal home for your family and ensure that your children have access to the best possible education.
See also the concierge at The Florida LoungeThe best way to live in the United States: an exclusive and complete consultancy that takes care of all the details of your life in the United States, from the choice of property to support with school enrollment.
🧠 Frequently asked questions about school in the United States
1. What is the age to start school in the USA?
Children usually start school at the age of 5, in Kindergarten. Compulsory education lasts until the age of 17 or 18, depending on the state.
2. How do I enroll my child in public school in the USA?
Proof of residence in the school district, birth certificate, vaccination card and school transcript (if available) are required.
3. Do public schools have bilingual education?
Some schools in regions with a high immigrant population offer support programs for multilingual students. However, the main curriculum is usually in English.
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