﻿How to Navigate the U.S. Education System as an Immigrant Parent
You’ve moved to the US and now you’re trying to figure out the school system for your child.
Here’s what you need to know about primary and secondary education in the US.
How the U.S. Education System Is Structured All children in the US can attend a public school,
no matter what their immigration status is. The U.S. education system is divided into three
stages: primary, secondary, and post-secondary education. Primary and secondary education are
compulsory, but post-secondary education (such as college or vocational programs) is optional.
The American school year usually begins in August or early September
and ends in May or early June. Most schools take a winter break in December,
a spring break in March or April as well as a longer break over summer.
Levels Formal schooling lasts about 12 years,
and each school year is called a grade. Most children begin their education in
kindergarten at age 5 or 6, and they complete their education in 12th grade at age 17 or 18.
Public schools are generally divided into districts, which operate several schools in
a specific region. Here’s what you can expect: * Primary education: Also called elementary
school, this stage generally consists of kindergarten through fifth grade. Before beginning
kindergarten, some children aged 3-5 years old enroll in preschool, which is not required but
may help prepare them for their education. * Secondary education: This stage consists of 6th
through 12th grade. It includes middle school and high school.
Most districts reserve 9th through 12th grade for high school. Once your child completes 12th grade,
they receive a high school diploma. Assessment
Teachers evaluate students all year, and they must meet certain benchmarks before they can
move onto the next grade. They measure student’s work with grading systems, which are different
depending on the state you’re in or the school. American public schools also issue statewide tests
(sometimes called standardized tests or benchmark tests) to make sure students are hitting minimum
standards of education. In high school, students can take standardized tests that satisfy college
credits (such as Advanced Placement tests) or support their college admissions requirements
(such as the SAT or ACT). Choosing a School:
Public, Private, and Other Options The American school system is divided into
public and private education. Understanding what works best for your family begins with
understanding what’s available in your area. Some families only have access to public schools,
while others have more flexibility with school choice. Here are a few key differences between
public and private schools: Finances
Public schools are free because they are funded by taxes, as well as a combination of local,
state, and federal funding. Private schools charge tuition because they don’t receive any
government funding, although schools may offer fee waivers and scholarships for eligible students.
Demographics Public schools tend to
serve students within specific neighborhoods, with larger classroom sizes and more racially
and ethnically diverse student populations than private schools. Private schools usually have
smaller classroom sizes, and private school families choose to attend specific schools
because of the school’s philosophy, religious affiliation, or specific educational programs.
Curriculum The curriculum at public schools is decided by the
state, local school boards, and district staff. Private schools have more autonomy and can tailor
their curriculum based on the school’s priorities, such as religious education
or programs that cater to STEM fields. The U.S. education system also
offers two other school options: * Charter school: A school that receives
funding from the government like a public school, but operates independently from state standards.
Some charter schools are meant to serve underserved communities and provide the experience
of a private school, without charging tuition. * Home school: Families can choose to teach
students at home or places outside the home. Lessons are given by a parent,
tutor, or online teacher, and must meet state and local requirements for curriculum and attendance.
In terms of where your child attends school, there isn’t a single “best” choice. This decision
depends on what’s available in your area, what works for your family, and personal preference.
Paying for Your Child’s Education In the US, children can attend public
school for free from kindergarten through high school. Parents need to pay for basic supplies
like notebooks, pencils, and clothing, and they need to provide a bagged lunch or pay
for their child to eat at the school cafeteria. Some districts offer free or lower-priced lunches
for low-income families. Others offer free lunch for all students, regardless of income.
Private schools charge tuition, but many schools offer scholarships or fee waivers for lower-income
families. Tuition varies depending on factors like the school’s location and specific programs.
Among all private K-12 schools nationwide, the average annual tuition is $12,350,
according to EducationData.org. If you like this video, please be sure to give
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