The U.S. School System
The U.S. school system is divided into three main levels. Each level is a completely separate institution, located in a separate building. At the elementary level, children study the required subjects; in the middle grades, they add several elective courses. In high school, children can choose the subjects they will need when they enter college. American schools do not have classroom teachers or classes, but each student has a curator who advises on subject selection, scheduling, career guidance, and college admissions.
Elementary Schools
Within the elementary school structure, there may be 5 or 6 classes, depending on the state, starting with matriculation. Children over the age of 5 may enter zero (preparatory) classes. Students from other countries may attend elementary school if the child lives in the U.S. with a parent or guardian.
During the first two years of elementary school in the United States, there is no strict discipline or serious academy style: children can walk around the classroom, sit on the floor, form circles on the floor, read bright books and talk. Homework is provided in the form of free assignments. After a walk, for example, children were asked to draw what they saw in green; older children could write a short essay about the beetles that crawl through the trees on campus. By fifth grade, children move to single desks and the curriculum becomes more structured.
In elementary school, the main subjects - writing, reading, math basics and the world around us - are taught by one teacher, while others take children to creative, music and physical education classes.
Secondary School
In secondary school, each subject has its own teacher and students have some freedom in their choice of subjects.
Mathematics, English, natural sciences (physics, chemistry, biology, geology, astronomy-science), history, physical education and creativity are still compulsory subjects. Students choose 1-2 subjects on their own. The most common ones are computer technology, cooking, foreign languages or art.
In addition, in the middle, it is possible to choose more complex programs in the discipline. To do this, you need to get excellent grades in the previous year. Starting in grade 7, you can increase the complexity of math and English. In grade 8 - also natural sciences and social sciences. In courses of increased complexity, more intensive programs with complex tasks and a lot of self-learning information.
In addition, a credit system is being introduced in secondary schools. For 1 subject 1 year of study, 5 credits are given, for subjects that last 1 semester - 2.5 credits. Then these indicators are taken into account when entering the university.
Highschool
In high school, students have more freedom in choosing subjects and levels of study.
Required blocks.
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2 years of mathematics.
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4 years of English.
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2 years of natural sciences (laboratory work).
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3 years of social sciences.
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1 year of physical education.
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1 year of art courses.
Each discipline includes many sub-disciplines that students can study individually or in a complex way: for example, mathematics includes courses in geometry, algebra, trigonometry, principles of analysis, statistics and other sections; the social sciences group includes American history, world history, political science, psychology, sociology, etc.
In addition, these guys choose extracurricular activities.
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Music ;
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Foreign languages.
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Foundations of a healthy lifestyle.
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Foundations of doing business.
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Oratory, etc.
In high school, students take a college or university entrance exam (SAT or ACT - tests general knowledge in math, language, logic and critical thinking).
Top 20 U.S. Public High Schools
Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology
In order to improve the education of students in math, science and technology, Fairfax County Public Schools and the business community came together to establish Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology. The high school is located in the Northern Virginia Governor's Regional School. Science and Technology. The curriculum emphasizes STEM subjects, problem solving, critical analysis and research, intellectual curiosity and social responsibility. All honors, gifted, AP and post-AP courses are taught by faculty.
Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology has very rigorous admission requirements, including entrance exams, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and a record of high academic achievement. Students are also considered for admission because of their demonstrated ability and enthusiasm for learning in the areas of math, science and technology. Today, it is one of the best public high schools in the U.S. in 2022 and one of the best high schools in the country.
Carnegie Vanguard High School
Carnegie Vanguard High School is a community magnet school that offers AP, pre-AP and elective classes. 98% of students go on to four-year colleges or universities, and 100% of students pass AP exams. 100 hours of community service and 10 AP courses are required for graduation. Carnegie Pioneer High School's clubs emphasize community service and academics. Admission requires common assessment scores, teacher recommendations, transcripts and identification of gifted or talented. It is one of the best public schools in the United States according to the 2022 U.S. High School Rankings.
Academy of Arts and Sciences High School
The Academy of Arts and Sciences is the premier academic magnet high school in Austin, Texas, which recruits talented students from public and private high schools. AP courses are taken by 95% of students, with a 96% pass rate. The four-year college acceptance rate is 95.5%. The College of Arts and Sciences offers a project-based curriculum that emphasizes discussion, research and seminar-style meetings. As a cornerstone of the curriculum, the school offers co-opted courses.
Student groups conduct scientific and humanitarian research, design, implement and present projects. In addition to educational institutions, the College of Arts and Sciences has chess, debate, the Future Teachers of America team, and philosophy clubs and clubs. French, German, Spanish and Chinese are foreign language clubs. This school maintains a competitive admissions process based on past performance, test scores and faculty recommendations. Today, it is one of the best public high schools in the United States in 2022 and one of the best high schools in the country.
Gilbert Classical Institute
Gilbert Classical Academy offers a comprehensive, rigorous curriculum that emphasizes a Socratic approach to teaching and learning. The school offers only honors and AP courses to prepare students for college-level study. All students take AP courses and have a 98% pass rate on exams. The Gilbert Classical Academy curriculum is supplemented by fine arts courses, clubs and physical education classes. Each student must complete 80 hours of community service and pass a thesis defense. To enroll in Gilbert Classical Academy, you must complete an initial course. It is one of the best public schools in the United States according to the 2022 U.S. High School Rankings. 5.
High School of Design and Architecture
Design and Architecture High School is a magnet school that teaches students the basics of visual communication, fine arts, entertainment, and architecture. Students can also take traditional science, math and language arts courses. Design and Architecture Senior Academy offers AP and Honors courses, as well as dual enrollment courses at the community college. Ninety-eight percent of students take AP courses. Internships at local design firms provide students with hands-on experience.
Low-income students make up 40% of the Design and Architecture High School student body. The U.S. Department of Education awards the Blue Ribbon Award of Excellence to Design and Architecture High School. To be considered, each candidate must submit a sketchbook, portfolio and audition. Today, it is one of the best public high schools in the United States in 2022 and one of the best high schools in the country.
University High School
It is one of the best public schools in the United States according to the 2022 U.S. High School Rankings. University High School is a college preparatory school that offers courses in math, science, English and modern languages. Through honors and AP courses, this high school serves academically oriented and intellectually gifted students. The school has foreign language classes, including Chinese, French and German. The university's graduate school, in partnership with the University of Arizona, also offers engineering programs.
The school shares a campus with Rincon High School, and University High School students can participate in Rincon High School classes in addition to University High School classes. The school shares most clubs in addition to the University High School chess team, Science Olympiad, Academic Decathlon and tryouts. Hosts regional, state and Republican level Olympiads for students. Admissions are based on passing scores on the Cognitive Ability Test and grade point averages from the first two semesters of enrollment.
Stanton College Preparatory School
This magnet school emphasizes cultural awareness and responsible citizenship. The school offers Honors, AP and IB courses. Stanton College Preparatory School offers honors and core AP courses. 99% of students participate in IB courses with a 100% completion rate. Through partnerships with the University of North Florida and Florida State University, Jacksonville, Stanton College Prep students can earn college credit while attending high school.
Honor societies, interest groups, academic teams, service clubs and music clubs are among the school's more than 50 clubs and organizations. Stanton College Preparatory School has been named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education. Today, it is one of the best public high schools in the United States in 2022 and one of the best high schools in the country.
International Baccalaureate Academy
All IB courses and exams must be taken by International Academy students. Applicants can earn up to one year of college credit before graduating from high school. This institution combines rigorous academic standards with practical, career-oriented learning. Among other core courses, the curriculum emphasizes English, arts, liberal arts, science and technology. The school also offers primarily honors courses as part of its secondary education program. Okma, East and West are the three campuses of the International Academy.
To graduate from International Academy, each student must complete 150 hours of community service or extracurricular activities. Chess, dance, film and robotics are just a few of the extra activities. A lottery is used to select students for admission to the International Academy. It is one of the best public schools in the United States according to the 2022 U.S. High School Rankings.
Downingtown STEM Academy
Downingtown STEM Academy is a high-performing public school in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. Every student at the IB World School has the opportunity to earn an IB diploma. Students engage in hard and challenging academic work that requires a growth mindset and effort. Ninety percent of incoming students use the IB curriculum. In each category, traditional loans must account for at least 75% of student loan needs. Grades are not included in a student's GPA, except for dual enrollment courses.
The school offers many clubs and sports teams in addition to the programs offered by the district's home schools for students. Admission requires a preparatory course, written essay, teacher recommendation and interview. Today, it is one of the best public high schools in the United States in 2022 and one of the best high schools in the country.
Staten Island Technical High School
The New York City Department of Education has designated Staten Island Technical High School as a specialized high school. These institutions cater to the needs of talented New York students. Staten Island Technical High School offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with a focus on math, science, engineering, computers, and liberal arts. This high school also has a strong focus on health, fitness and performing arts. Students have access to science, engineering and computer labs.
The school has 100% of students enrolled in AP classes and 94% of students pass the AP exam. In addition, Staten Island Technical High School offers an early college admissions program and a college dual enrollment program. Students who excel in science at Staten Island Technical High School are eligible to participate in the school's Technology Studies Program. Students can discover their career and life goals through a variety of professional learning and study opportunities such as workplace tours, internships, and guest speaker visits.
Staten Island Technical High School announces that all students are accepted to colleges and universities. Students from low-income families make up 31% of the student body. Staten Island Technical High School is highly competitive. Students are accepted into specialized high schools after passing a difficult entrance exam. It is one of the best public schools in the United States according to the 2022 U.S. High School Rankings.
Brooklyn Latin School
Brooklyn Latin School educates students in the classical liberal arts tradition. Students develop a strong foundation in STEM, history, English, Latin and modern world languages. The New York City Department of Education has designated the school as a professional high school. Brooklyn Latin School serves the gifted and talented students of New York. Students can pursue the IB diploma program and earn college credit through dual enrollment. The program emphasizes structured writing and public speaking.
At Brooklyn Latin, students from low-income families make up 67% of the student body. Students are accepted into specialized high schools after passing a difficult entrance exam. Today, it is one of the best public high schools in America in 2022 and one of the best high schools in the country.
Bergen County College
Bergen County Academy is a free public magnet high school for Bergen County residents. Among other things, the school offers specialized programs in math, science, engineering, design, and medicine. This free school serves students in grades 9-12. Bergen County College has a wide range of extracurricular activities and an excellent faculty, many of whom hold doctorates in their respective fields. Although the school offers 16 AP courses, the school does not prioritize them.
The Blue Ribbon School is a member of the National Consortium of Secondary Specialized Schools in Mathematics, Science and Technology. The New Jersey Department of Education designated the institution as an exemplary arts school after accepting five Intel Science Talent Search finalists over the past five years. It is one of the best public schools in the United States, according to the 2022 U.S. High School Rankings.
Academic Magnet High School
Academic Magnet High School caters to talented and motivated students. The high school encourages students to develop a sense of global responsibility, prioritize their communities, and respect cultural diversity. In addition to rigorous academic requirements, each applicant must complete 90 hours of community service, complete at least four high school AP courses, complete a summer reading list, and write an essay (a year-long independent research project).
Despite these rigorous requirements, Academic Magnet High School graduates 95% of its students. Academic Magnet High School has several sports teams and more than 50 student clubs, including chess, debate, robotics, and physics. Each applicant must submit a written essay, high school grades, test scores and teacher recommendations. Today, it is one of the best public high schools in the United States in 2022 and one of the best high schools in the country.
Townsend Harris High School
It is one of the best public schools in the United States according to the 2022 U.S. High School Rankings. Townsend Harris High School is a public liberal arts magnet high school in Queens, New York. The school encourages students to pursue excellence and serve their communities as part of their mission. Townsend Harris High School's rigorous curriculum consists primarily of AP courses. Ninety-seven percent of applicants pass the AP exam, for a 99% success rate. Townsend Harris students can also earn college credit by taking dual credit high school courses.
Students may also enroll in language courses at Queens College with the permission of the faculty director. At Townsend Harris High School, 78% of students come from historically marginalized groups and 55% come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Many of the school's clubs and activities focus on academics and community service. Students entering Townsend Harris High School must have at least a 90% overall GPA, excellent standardized test scores, and excellent attendance and punctuality.
Math and Science Academy. Gwinnett
The Gwinnett Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology emphasizes STEM education through project-based learning. The campus includes facilities for producing audio and video digital media, science labs, and large facilities for projects in engineering, robotics, art and design. Gwinnett Math, Science and Technology has a 100 percent AP course participation rate and a 96 percent AP exam pass rate. Courses offered include chemistry, physics, engineering, and linguistics.
Gwinnett College of Mathematics, Science and Technology enrolls students by lottery. Today, it is one of the best public high schools in America in 2022 and one of the best high schools in America.
Walter Payton College Preparatory High School
Today, it is one of the best public high schools in the United States in 2022 and one of the best high schools in the country. Walter Payton College Preparatory High School is a selective admissions attraction with a curriculum that emphasizes honors and AP courses in science, math, liberal arts, languages, and other subjects. The high school also offers foreign language courses, including French, Japanese, Chinese, Latin and Spanish. Global exchange and study programs are offered for students from all over the world.
Walter Payton College Preparatory High School offers a competitive athletic program and a variety of school clubs, including astronomy, chess, debate and photography. The school also maintains a strong commitment to community service and inclusion. Students from low-income families make up 31 percent of the student body. Within one year of graduation, 85 percent of students enroll in a college or university. 88% enroll within 16 months. Walter Payton College Preparatory High School is an Intel Distinguished School and a recipient of the National Blue Ribbon Award.
Bronx High School of Science
Bronx High School of Science continues to be classified as a special high school by the New York City Department of Education. This elite public high school specializes in college preparatory courses and offers foreign language, art, math and science courses. Students from low-income families make up 44% of the student body. The school offers education in eight foreign languages. Drama, health and visual arts are all required courses.
Alumni of the school include eight Nobel Prize winners, eight National Medal of Science winners and six Pulitzer Prize winners. The National Consortium of Professional Mathematics, Science and Technology High Schools includes the Bronx High School of Science. The Professional High School Admissions Test is used to determine admission to high schools. It is one of the best public schools in the United States according to the 2022 U.S. High School Rankings.
Bergen County Technical High School
Bergen County Technical High School - Teterboro offers AP classes, and 97% of students take advanced placement courses. Students can pursue a technical major or take college preparatory courses. The high school also offers a wide range of elective courses. Prior to high school graduation, students can take college courses at Fairleigh Dickinson University and Bergen Community College. Each year students can participate in SkillsUSA competitions. Students can also participate in traditional fall, winter and spring sports.
Bergen County Technical High School - Teterboro is a National Blue Ribbon School and a member of the National Alliance of Professional Math, Science and Technology High Schools and the Core Schools Consortium. Today, it is one of the best public high schools in the United States in 2022 and one of the best high schools in the country.
Suncoast High School
It is one of the best public schools in the United States according to the 2022 U.S. High School Rankings. Suncoast Community High School is a public college preparatory high school that offers engaging programs in four areas: Innovative Interactive Technologies, International Baccalaureate, Computer Science and Math, and Science and Engineering. All students are enrolled in AP courses and 52% of students are enrolled in IB courses. Suncoast Community High School students can earn International Standards, IB and AP diplomas. Students can gain real-world experience by completing executive internships.
Students can also earn industry certifications through their software and hardware, giving them a competitive edge upon graduation. Students from low-income families make up 27% of the student body. Students can participate in more than 80 organizations and clubs, as well as 44 sports teams. Admission to this high school is based primarily on test scores, recommendations and grades. Students who complete the IB secondary program at a local high school are also automatically admitted to the school.
Stuyvesant High School
The New York City Department of Education has designated Stuyvesant High School as a special high school to meet the needs of gifted and talented students in New York City. The educational program at this high school focuses on math, science and technology. In addition to a comprehensive liberal arts curriculum, students may study criminal law and journalism. Each student studies a foreign language for three years. The high school has five bands, a symphony orchestra and a jazz ensemble. Students can also work together on theatrical productions.
Stuyvesant High School has sports teams, robotics teams, academic teams and numerous clubs. Students from low-income families make up 43 percent of the enrollment at Stuyvesant High School. Historically marginalized groups make up 81% of the student body. Four graduates of Stevenson High School have won the Nobel Peace Prize. Students are admitted to specialized high schools after passing a difficult entrance exam. It is one of the best public schools in the United States, according to the 2022 U.S. High School Rankings.