The education system in the United States is provided by both the private and public sector. Students start with elementary school (1-5th grade), then go onto middle school (6-8th grade) and then high school (9-12th grade). Those who wish to pursue higher education can apply to universities and colleges. In higher education, there are undergraduate (for those who haven’t earned a bachelor’s degree) and graduate levels.
American public schools are grouped into school districts, and each school district is usually managed by the local government (town, city, etc.). Public schools follow curriculums that are set by the state, and ach state has its own curriculum that differs from other states. Private schools are not forced to follow the state-endorsed curriculum, and are free to come up with their own. English is the primary method of instruction across all 50 states (and special territories) and students may also choose to pursue a second language as well.
According to a study conducted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the United States spends more on education than any other country in the world-- and the amount spent on each high school student is perhaps more than $12,000. Interestingly, while the United States spends more on education than any other country, Americans believe that their education system trails behind those of others. For example, American 15-year-olds placed 31st worldwide for math literacy (in a Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study), and were below the international average.
Following the No Child Left Behind Act (signed by former President Bush in 2001), states are required to give standardized testing to students in all grade levels in all public schools. The standardized tests are used to assess a school’s competence, and indicates when the state should intervene. The goals of the NCLB Act include increasing funding for poor school districts, and ensuring (the bill is aptly named) that children from disadvantaged backgrounds are able to meet educational standards-- it is making sure that schools are held accountable for their students’ education and progress.
In contrast, the higher education system in the United States is mostly private and independent from the federal government.