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The Education System in the USA
The United States provides free public education to all children from kindergarten through 12th grade. Students are typically assigned to attend the nearest public school to their residence, which is typically within a 1.5-mile radius. If the distance is greater, school districts often provide free bus transportation. This service is available to students up to 12th grade if the distance is not walkable.
The education system in the USA is divided into elementary school (kindergarten to 5th grade), middle school (6th to 8th or 9th grade), and high school (9th or 10th to 12th grade). Some school districts have separate schools for 9th grade, often referred to as freshman academies. There is no uniform or dress code policy in public schools, and homework is not typically assigned until 5th grade. Corporal punishment is strictly prohibited, and regular meetings are held between parents and teachers to discuss student progress.
The Gifted and Talented Program
The GT program is designed to identify and support gifted students. Parents can coach their children to take the GT test as early as 2nd grade. The test is administered by public schools, and students who pass receive training in advanced subjects like math and science. Special schools are available for GT students, and parents can apply for admission to these schools instead of their local public school.
School Ratings
Every school in the USA receives an annual rating, which is published on the school's website. These ratings play a critical role in helping parents choose the best school for their child. However, due to the requirement that children attend their nearest school, many parents are unable to send their children to their preferred school. As a result, school ratings have a significant impact on property values, with homes near highly rated schools being at least 10-12% more expensive.
Special Schools for English Language Learners
In addition to regular public schools, the USA offers special schools for students who struggle with English communication. These schools provide training for one year prior to kindergarten and cater primarily to Hispanic and Asian students who may not have adequate opportunities to learn English at home.
Private Schools and Charter Schools
In addition to public schools, the USA has private schools run by churches or NGOs, known as Charter Schools. These schools often do not charge tuition fees but rely on donations and fundraising activities. Students in these schools receive personalized attention, and there is a strong emphasis on discipline, homework, and uniform dress codes.
College Education
Similar to India, a significant percentage of students in the USA are average academically. According to USA data, only 39% of students enrolled in college in 2022. To pursue higher education, students must pass the SAT or ACT exam, and admission to college is based on these scores. Some colleges also require minimum scores in 12th grade. Students can earn additional credits for extracurricular activities and social services.
Higher education in the USA can be expensive, and many average students opt for employment instead of pursuing higher education due to low SAT/ACT scores or financial constraints. Some students may pursue vocational training or certification programs, which can last one to two years, while others may avail themselves of education loans. Confident students, on the other hand, pursue college education, often working part-time while studying.
Conclusion
By the time they reach 12th grade, boys and girls in the USA typically become independent individuals. Once they graduate, they usually leave their parents' home to pursue higher education or start their careers. As a result, the bond between parents and children undergoes a significant transformation, evolving into a close friendship rather than a traditional parent-child dynamic.
This is despite the fact that the parents (both husband and wife) take utmost care of their children including the step-child or step-children with love and affection catering their needs in all respects. The cultural emphasis on self-reliance and individuality can sometimes lead to a sense of emotional distance between parents and children. Nevertheless, this shift in the parent-child relationship is a common phenomenon in many American households, where children are encouraged to spread their wings and forge their own paths in life.
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